Ready to start your Farm Business?
The SWVA Field School is a beginning farmer training program that includes training on business planning, finances, and marketing all geared toward helping beginning farmers create sustainable and profitable small farms. The Field School is made up of two sessions: the Summer Field School and the Winter Business Intensive.
Registration for the 2024 Summer Field School begins March 4.
All SWVA Field School classes are free to military veterans.
Summer Field School
About: 8 on-farm classes to where students will have the opportunity to visit local farms and hear about different successful production methods implemented there. Topics include soil health/no-till farming, season extension, forest farming, cattle work, and more.
When?: 1st and 3rd Thursday during the months of May through August at 6:00pm.
Cost: $10 for individual classes or $50 for all 8 classes.
Winter Business INtensive
About: 8 intensive classes designed to help set beginning farmers on the path to a successful career in agriculture production. Students will participate in topics such as business planning, sustainable practices, financial management, marketing, and more.
When?: 1st and 3rd Thursday during the months of November through February at 6:00pm.
Cost: $50 for all 8 classes; includes class binder and a copy of Whole Farm Management.
Contact the Program Manager
