1114 Shawan Road, Suite 1, Cockeysville, MD 21030
(410) 549-7878
Beginner Farmer Training Program: 2017 Application
Level 3
Applicant Requirements: In order to be eligible for level 3 of the Beginner Farmer Training Program (BFTP), applicants must have at least 3-5 seasons of farming experience.Applicants for this level must currently be engaged in either: a) running their own farm operation, or b) managing a farm, but not in an owner capacity. Level 3 trainees are paired with an experienced, farmer consultant—a farmer with many years of experience growing sustainably in this region—for a full season of one-on-one guidance and mentorship. We accept applicants from MD, DC, VA, WV, DE, and PA.
Directions for Submission: Complete application packages must include:
1) completed application form (in Word format),
2) a cover letter,
3) resume,
4) a list of 3 references (at least 2 references must be from a work setting; the third may be educational)
The deadline for applications is October 15, 2016. Please note that there are a limited number of spots in the program and applications are being considered on a rolling basis. We encourage you to get your application in as early as possible.
All applications must be submitted by email to Sarah Sohn, BFTP Director, at: .
First Name:
Last Name:
Address:
Home Phone:
Cell Phone:
Email:
1. How did you hear about the Beginner Farmer Training Program?
2. What prior experience have you had working on farms? (Please include farm names, location, acreage, growing practices, and other relevant details.)
3. Please provide an in-depth description of the farm that you currently run and a summary of your responsibilities there:
4. What are your top short and long-term farming goals?
5. How do you believe this program will help you achieve these goals?
6. How do you plan to further your farming goals in 2017? (Please describe at least 3 concrete steps you plan to take in the coming year.)
7. Please provide an overview of your business and marketing plan for 2017:
8. Are you a beginning farmer at this point in time? (*The USDA defines a “beginning farmer” as someone who: a) has never operated a farm or ranch before, or b) has operated a farm or ranch for less than 10 consecutive years.)
☐ Yes
☐ No
9. Please tell us what specific expertise and qualities you are looking for in your potential Farmer Consultant match (include considerations like experience in particular types of operations, location, etc.):
10. What are the main topics you seek feedback and guidance from your Farmer Consultant on?
11. Any other feedback on how FHCASA and your Farmer Consultant can help you this coming season?
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Demographic Information (Optional):
Age
Gender
Marital Status
Race/Ethnicity
Limited Resource
Immigrant/Refugee
Non-English Speaking or ESL
Veteran
Disabled