• Organic Farming Fundamentals
• Commercial Organic Vegetable Production Basics
• Organic Livestock Basics
• PLUS: Advanced Livestock Intensives!

Groundswell's Sustainable Farming Courses and 100-hour Certificate Program provide practical training in small-scale, commercial organic farming systems and expose trainees to a variety of successful small farm management models. These programs are geared for beginning and aspiring commercial farmers. Our basic level courses are also valuable for serious homesteaders, agricultural science students, educators, and others who need to deepen their knowledge of sustainable production practices and gain a realistic understanding of the opportunities and challenges involved in small-scale farming. Most basic level classes meet 5-8 PM on weekdays, to meet the needs of trainees who are working on a farm or job, or who have school or family reponsibilities during the day. 

Our advanced-level "Intensives" are specialized, full-day programs designed for those with previous agricultural production experience.  Conventional and low-input producers interested in learning about certifiable organic livestock production are encouraged to attend. Class size is limited and priority will be given to farmers and farm employees with at least one full year of production experience, or who are simultaneously enrolled in the Sustainable Farming Certificate Program. (Certificate Program tuition does not include Intensives - you must register separately.) Others are welcome to apply for these programs and may be accepted if space is available. 

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Groundswell's mission

Groundswell's mission is to engage diverse learners and empower them with skills, knowledge and access to resources so they can build sustainable land-based livelihoods and equitable local food systems.  We provide practical and applicable experience-based education and business incubation through a network of successful local farms and partner organizations. The result we seek is successful entry into and growth of our local food and farming systems. 

Learn more about our 2012 accomplishments and donate here.

Groundswell is an initiative of the EcoVillage Center for Sustainability Education, a project of the Center for Transformative Action. Groundswell is supported in part by USDA's Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Grant #2010-49400-21799.