2023 Program Dates: May 16 – October 12
Wages for field work is paid at $15/hour, up to $3,600 for the season.
Living stipend of up to $2,500 available for Native American farmers and farmers from other communities underrepresented in farming.
Course Fees: $2250; full and partial scholarships available.
Deadlines: Apply by January 20 and hear by February 10; Apply by February 15 to hear by March 10.
Program Description: Farmers-in-training (FITs) gain hands-on experience growing vegetables at high elevation. Through morning field work and afternoon classes and field trips, the FIT program provides a strong foundation for aspiring and beginning farmers. FITs work with program staff to tend about two acres of vegetables, learning new and traditional skills and techniques vital to farming at high elevation. FITs join the Old Fort staff and program partners in a network committing to supporting beginning farmers through incubator and land access opportunities, business planning, and community support.
Program graduates will have completed:
Work and class schedules require a 22-hour/week commitment:
Program Schedule:
Courses include:
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