JUL 17-OCT 5, 2023: Vancouver Island Regenerative Farming Program

Looking to gain farm skills? This FULLY FUNDED Regenerative Farming Program teaches the main theories, concepts and practices of regenerative farming with guidance from industry experts. The theory portion of the program will be delivered online along with a one week in-person bootcamp at Lentelus Farms, then an eight-week on-farm practicum.

WHEN: July 17 – Oct 5, 2023

WHERE: One-week bootcamp at Lentelus Farms in Comox, followed by a practicum on a farm on Vancouver Island or Powell River for 3 days per week, and online lessons for 2 days per week.

COST: Free. Transportation, childcare, equipment, etc. is covered.

REGISTER: Learn more and register for the program here.

Course Outline

Bootcamp

A hands-on introduction to the practical elements required to operate a mixed farming operation. Covering First Aid and tractor safety operation, the course will introduce participants to livestock care, fencing, cover cropping, irrigation, and carpentry basics. Participants will work with livestock and livestock infrastructure and use small tools in a safe and productive manner. Students will also have a chance to learn how to use all the equipment required to run a small regenerative vegetable farm.

Practicum

Students will participate in an on-farm practicum as part of the course. They will be assigned to farms in their local area (Vancouver Island and Powell River) to expand their knowledge base and hands on skills. The practicums will be 6 hours a day for 3 days a week for 8 weeks.

Online Lessons

Courses will cover topics such as:

• Technologies to maximize livestock and perennial crop income: nutrient management, hog, poultry, beef, and lamb production, as well as introducing several perennial crops
• Sustainability and climate change, agroecology, and soil science
• Skills and safety training for farming, business planning, and government regulations required to work-on and operate a farm
• Regenerative farming practices used in the commercial production of annual vegetable crops on small-scale farms: crop planning, seeding, bed preparation, transplanting, field maintenance, harvesting, processing, and marketing

Questions? Contact Susan at 250-334-5092 or susan.murray@nic.bc.ca.

Learn more and register here.

This program is offered in partnership with North Island College, Vancouver Island University, and the Government of Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement.