Armed to Farm Returns to NYS, Veterans Can Now Apply
We are excited to announce that Armed to Farm, the week-long training for military veterans interested in agriculture, is returning to New York State this fall. Veterans can apply now to join the intensive learning experience.
Hosted by the Cornell Small Farms Program’s Farm Ops project and the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), the Armed to Farm training offers veterans a strong foundation in the basic principles of operating a sustainable farm. The training covers business planning, budgeting, recordkeeping, marketing, USDA programs, livestock production, fruit and vegetable production, and more. In addition, Armed to Farm attendees join a nationwide network of supportive farmer-veterans and agricultural advisors.
The week-long training includes an engaging blend of farm tours, hands-on activities, and interactive classroom instruction. NCAT Sustainable Agriculture specialists will lead the training sessions. Additional contributors will include staff from Cornell’s Small Farm Program and USDA agencies, plus experienced crop and livestock producers.
“Going to Armed to Farm gave me more of a direction,” farmer veteran and Armed to Farm participant Logan Yarbrough told the Cornell Chronicle. “Thankfully with all these farm tours I’ve gone on and all these classes I’ve gotten, I’ve figured out where I need to be … The biggest benefit to Farm Ops is the access to knowledge and people in related fields, so I can learn from the mistakes they’ve made and not make them myself.”
This training is for veterans in the Northeast, with priority given to New York State residents. The number of participants will be limited. One spouse or farm partner is welcome to attend with a veteran but must submit a separate application.
Applications are available online and are due by September 11. NCAT will notify selected participants by September 15.
Dates, Location, and Cost
Armed to Farm will take place October 16-20 in Warwick, New York. Participants will attend classroom sessions and travel to local farms for hands-on learning experiences.
The event is free for those chosen to attend; lodging at Mountain Lake Park, transportation to local farms, and most meals will be provided. Participants must pay their own travel costs to and from the event, but travel scholarships are available through a partnership with Ranchin’ Vets. Information on travel scholarships will be provided upon acceptance to the training.
Contact Lee Rinehart at lee@ncat.org with any questions.
