Beginning Farmer Training Opportunities in the Chesapeake Region

Tour 2 local farms and learn about opportunities to gain sustainable farming skills!

Starts at: Calvert’s Gift Farm: 16813 Yeoho Road, Sparks, MD 21152
Ends at: Five Seeds Farm & Apiary: 16528 Dubbs Road, Sparks, MD 21152 

Fee: Future Harvest CASA Members $20; Nonmembers $30

Food: Potluck dinner - bring a dish to share!

Event Description:

Learn about the opportunities for beginning farmers in the Chesapeake region to receive land-based training and support through programs such as Future Harvest CASA's Beginning Farmer Training Program (BFTP). Hear from BFTP founder, trainer, and farmer Jack Gurley and recent BFTP graduate Denzel Mitchell. We will visit each of their farms to hear about how it influences their day-to-day operations. Find out how you can become a trainer or a trainee!

We will also review some other great local resources for beginning farmer training such as Future Harvest CASA's New Farmer Pathways Program, Maryland Farmlink's Mentor Match program, University of Maryland Extension's Beginning Farmer Success (BFS) Program, and the Institute of Applied Agriculture's certificate program in Sustainable Agriculture at the University of Maryland.

About the Farms:

Calvert’s Gift Farm has been certified organic since it opened in 1994. The Gurleys use growing methods that support genetic diversity and enhance soil quality, providing for the economic well-being of the farmer and for the health of the environment. They recently added a gravity-based, windmill-operated water pump.

Five Seeds Farm produces fruits, vegetables, herbs, eggs, honey and animals. They actively choose heritage varieties and focus on maintaining the practice of harmonious diversified agriculture, the cultural and historic legacies of Baltimore’s food history and culture, Black farming and homesteading.

To Register: Visit www.futureharvestcasa.org/events or call (410) 549-7878