Start Farming 2022 Mentorship - Now Open!

Applications are now open for the 2022 Start Farming Mentorship program! The goal of the mentorship is to empower Duval County residents with the tools and information necessary to start their own farm or agribusiness. In a mix of in-person workshops, virtual training, and on-site farm tours, mentees will learn about sustainable farming practices, resources available to start a farm and issues in farming practice. The program will take place from May to December, 2022. To receive a certificate of completion, mentees must attend at least 80% of programs offered. 

An outline of the calendar of events is as follows: 
​May- In-Person Workshop on Water Conservation, Farm Tour of Juicy Roots
June- Virtual Workshop on Uprooting Racism in Food Systems, Farm Tour of White Harvest Farms
July- In-Person Workshop on Soil Health
August- Virtual Workshop on Florida Farm Bill
September- Farm Tour of Congaree and Penn, In-Person Pollinator Workshop
October- Farm Tour of Lola Farms
December- Panel Discussion & Holiday Market, Closing Celebration

The Start Farming Mentorship program is open to new farmers who reside in Duval County and are interested in starting a farm business. Preference will be given to past attendees of the District’s annual Start Farming events. Applications are only accepted online through this Google Form  and must be submitted by April 16, 2022. Please note that there will be a small charge associated with this program. Additional details will be provided if you are chosen for the mentorship. If you have any questions or comments, please email us at [email protected].