Agriculture

Students will learn about agricultural disease and pest identification and management, ratios and proportions for mixing fertilizers and additives, soil and water chemistry, niche market identification, and agricultural adaptation to climate change in New England, as well as local and federal regulations and an introduction to resources for farmers. Lecture format will include formal lectures, guest speakers, and field trips. Labs will include in-lab research, experiments, and on- and off-campus fieldwork. Students will choose an area of specialization based on their market niche to begin the development of their portfolio.

This 8-week course will take place at a local farm using sustainable agriculture practices. Students will participate in all levels of farm operation from seed selection and ordering to pest, soil and water management, and transplanting crops. Focus areas will include soil analysis, financial and regulatory record keeping, greenhouse set up, chemical use and safety, and equipment selection and operation.

This course will take place at a local farm using sustainable agriculture practices. Students will be involved in harvesting, crop rotation and direct sowing, pest management, soil health and watering. Students will also gain practical knowledge about bringing a product to market, food safety and contamination, food and crop loss, health and safety regulations and documentation. Students will build a portfolio that can be adapted and used when they work in the field. The portfolio will contain all necessary licenses, certifications and financial documentation needed for all agricultural businesses.