November 6th- December 4th, 2008
(Nov 6, Nov 13, Nov 20, Dec 4)
6:30-9pm
Airlie center, 6809 Airlie Road, Warrenton, Virginia

View the Course Brochure

Exploring the Small Farm Dream- Is Starting an Agricultural Business Right for You?

Come and learn if starting an agricultural business is right for you at the upcoming course sponsored by the Airlie Center in Warrenton. Exploring the Small Farm Dream will help potential new farmers and agricultural business owners evaluate their farm business dreams and clarify next steps. A combination of creative exercises, class discussions, interviews with farm business innovators, and independent research, this course will connect you with a classroom of motivated individuals seeking to transform farm dreams into action.

Exploring the Small Farm Dream will be co-facilitated by Pablo Elliott and Brynn Slate of The Local Food Project at Airlie, together with Stacey Carlberg and Don Loock of the Piedmont Environmental Council. Several local farm business owners will provide valuable insight and expertise as guest speakers in three of the course sessions.

This course is ideal for career changers and farm 'newbies' breaking into agricultural pursuits, farm apprentices interested in launching a farm business, and current farmers looking to expand into a new enterprise. This course will be limited to twenty-four participants to ensure quality of in-depth discussions and meaningful interactions among small farm explorers.
Course Schedule:
November 6th, Session I: Expressing Farm Dreams and Evaluating Goals
November 13th , Session II: Researching the Landscape and Interviewing Current Farm Innovators
November 20th, Session III: Assessing Resources and Risk
December 4th, Session IV: Decision-Making and Identification of Next Steps
Cost:
$150 for four sessions, including workbook. Only $125 more for spouse/project partner. A limited number of scholarships are available.
How to Register:
A short application form briefly describing your experience and goals must be filled out before registering. To apply, email Pablo Elliott or call 540- 347-1300 ext. 3163.