New in 2027, Providence Farm Collective (PFC) is launching a Beginning Farmer Practicum. The Practicum is open to individuals who are interested in learning about organic vegetable production in Western New York. In 15 hands-on, evening workshops, students will learn everything they need to know to get started with growing their own vegetables on a small scale. Workshops will take place from April through October.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend an information session on Saturday, October 3 from 1–2 p.m. or Tuesday, October 13 from 4–5 p.m. at Providence Farm Collective, 5701 Burton Road, Orchard Park.
Access the application using the link below. Applications are due December 1st.
Our mission: Cultivate farmer-led and community-rooted agriculture and food systems to actualize the rights of under-resourced peoples.
Practicum topics include:
- crop planning
- greenhouse management
- starting seeds
- soil health
- fertility management
- soil preparation
- direct seeding
- transplanting
- irrigation management
- weed control
- pest and disease management
- harvesting
- post-harvest techniques
- basic business and marketing
Practicum topics include:
- crop planning
- greenhouse management
- starting seeds
- soil health
- fertility management
- soil preparation
- direct seeding
- transplanting
- irrigation management
- weed control
- pest and disease management
- harvesting
- post-harvest techniques
- basic business and marketing
Students who successfully complete the 15-workshop Practicum are eligible to apply for PFC’s 5-year Incubator Program in 2028. The Incubator Program provides students who would like to start a farm business with land, farming resources, education, and market access for 5 years.
