Summer Diversified Ag Intensive

Program Description:
Vermont Tech’s Summer Diversified Agriculture Program is an intensive study of sustainable agriculture methods backed by science. The program is open to current Vermont Tech students, high school students, students from other colleges and universities and adult learners. The program offers hands-on practical experiences in business management planning, vegetable/fruit crop management, poultry and dairy husbandry, and service learning experiences on Vermont farms. Students will work on Vermont Technical College’s organically managed vegetable farm and working dairy operation.

Areas of Study:
During the program students have the option to earn specific certifications with expert faculty and staff and a total of six credits: three in Agricultural Techniques and three in Vegetable Crop Management and Production. In addition, students will be exposed to various agriculture management and business techniques including direct marketing, CSA model and wholesale. This program will support students looking to enter the food systems work force. Emphasis is on operating and managing a sustainable diverse farm.

Program Schedule:
Starting June 23rd – July 10th the program will run from 7 am – 3 pm with the Vegetable Crop lecture in the afternoons from 1 pm to 3 pm each day. During this time students will receive three credits in Vegetable Production. Starting July 14th – August 14th the program will run from 7 am – 12 pm. During this time students will receive three credits in Agriculture Techniques, complete their chosen certificates, and experience various agriculture management and business techniques. Starting July 11th, every other Friday will be a relevant service learning opportunity. All students will participate in coursework, field work, hands-on lessons at the growing site and various farm field trips.