Southern Illinois farm training opens

By Andi Anderson

Food Works has announced open enrollment for its Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings Program. This year-long program is designed for new and beginning farmers with less than 10 years of experience.

The program aims to educate participants about sustainable and entrepreneurial farming practices.

According to Communications and Special Events Coordinator Karen Jensen-Britton, the Farm Beginnings Program is a key part of Food Works' farming training initiatives. "They help us work to get the product out," Jensen-Britton said.

The program starts with classroom sessions that cover the fundamentals of sustainable agriculture. These classes provide a solid foundation for participants, preparing them for the next phase of their training.

Following the classroom sessions, students participate in field day events. These hands-on learning opportunities allow students to gain practical experience by working directly with local farmers.

The program pairs each student with a mentor farmer who provides guidance and support throughout the training process.

The application deadline for the program is September 1. Those interested in enrolling are encouraged to apply soon to secure their spot in this valuable training opportunity.

In addition to its farming training programs, Food Works is dedicated to improving food access in Southern Illinois. The organization operates a mobile farmer’s market, which brings fresh, locally-grown produce to various communities.

The mobile market makes weekly stops throughout the summer and sets up an indoor farmer’s market at the University Mall in Carbondale from December through March.

To celebrate National Farmer’s Market Week from August 4 to 10, the mobile market will be making daily stops at different locations.

On Monday, August 5, it will visit Liberty Village of Carbondale and Crab Orchard Public Library. On Tuesday, August 6, the market will stop at the Marion VA and the West Frankfort Public Library. Wednesday, August 7, will see stops at Christopher Rural Health and Sallie Logan Public Library in Murphysboro.

The market will make its usual stops at Carterville Farm Fresh and Marion Carnegie Library on Thursday, August 8. Finally, on Friday, August 9, the team will visit Herrin House of Hope and Boyton Street Community Center.

The Food Works team collaborates with LEAF, an online farmer’s market, to distribute products from 30 different farmers. "They help us work to get the product out," Jensen-Britton said.

This partnership ensures that fresh, locally-produced food reaches a wider audience, supporting both local farmers and community members.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski