Beyond Sustainable

Description:
This unique 2-month residential training program is for aspiring or experienced farmers who want to develop a practical skill set for creating productive agricultural systems while protecting the health of downstream ecosystems. Each resident in this small class will learn tested, profitable whole systems organic farming strategies that benefit connected communities of people, plants, animals, and water life. Through hands-on farm projects and interpretive tours around the island, resident farmers will study agricultural methods of varying levels of sustainability, from watershed ridges to the famous Caribbean reefs. This program will be a “first-step” requirement for qualified 2009 apprentice positions.

What is Beneficial Farming? Beneficial Farming is the VISFI brand of an integrated agricultural skill package that fuses elements of organic agriculture, agroecology, Permaculture, silvipasture, business, and natural resource conservation. It’s beneficial because it strives to heighten biodiversity in ways that strengthen community health, increase the stock of natural capital, and produce economically viable goods and services.  It also just happens to make food taste better. Beneficial farming does not settle for a zero balance. It does more than just make it. It makes it better.

Cost: $3500
*includes tuition, room & board, program transportation, and most materials for 2 months

Program Components:
*Participate in university research in organic cropping
*Training in sustainable systems (alternative energy, composting, construction, waste management, and more)
*Annual and Perennial Crop Production
*Book/Movie Study Club
*Whole Systems Agriculture Perspectives
*Integrated Pest Management
*Permaculture Design
*Silviculture Management
*Nature Awareness Techniques
*Agricultural Economics
*Community Farmers Market Participation
*Caribbean Ag-Fair Role

Application Deadline:
November 3rd, 2008

For Application or More Information, Contact:
Nate Olive: