Join the next generation of beginning farmers!

Introducing Mountain Roots’ NextGen|ReGen - Beginning Farmer Training Program

 
 
 

About the Program

The world needs more farmers.

As the future of agriculture adapts to environmental, nutritional, and supply-related needs, our farmers and food systems will need to bolster new innovative solutions to meet demands. The need for locally grown fruits and vegetables and pasture-raised meats is soaring. In the upcoming decades, there will be a massive turnover or sell-off of prime farmland that could potentially be transitioned to a cadre of prepared next generation farmers. There is an urgent need for building resilience to climate change by modeling, teaching, and increasing the adoption of farming principles and practices that increase biodiversity, enrich soils, land, improve watersheds, and enhance ecosystem services.

The Next|ReGen Beginning Farmer Training Program has one simple goal: to train and inspire a new generation of farmers who are equipped to address the urgent challenges of sustainable food production, food access, and climate change resilience.

Representation matters.

In 2022, the USDA released a census report containing information about the demographics currently represented in the agriculture industry. The average farmer age in the U.S. is 58 years. Sixty-four percent of farmers are male, and 95% of farmers are white.

As farming evolves as an industry, it is more important than ever to create opportunities that allow diverse sets of voices to enter the conversation. The future of farming relies on innovative perspectives and ideas, especially as we work to transform our food systems, protect the climate, and support our communities.

The NextGen|ReGen Beginning Farmer Training Program wants to ensure that members of underrepresented demographics have a place at that table. We are committed to recruiting and training individuals from underrepresented groups in agriculture, ensuring that 75% of apprenticeship participants come from underrepresented communities. Applicants who identify as women, BIPOC, Hispanic/Latinx, LGBTQ+, or veterans are encouraged to apply.

Financial Accessibility

While many programs require individuals to pay for the experience, the NextGen|ReGen Beginning Farmer Training Program financially compensates individuals while they train and learn. Eliminating this cost barrier helps increase access to those who may be deterred by such financial barriers.

Two pathways, one goal.

The NextGen|ReGen Beginning Farmer Training Program offers two distinct pathways for learners to receive hands-on training in the field of agriculture—the Registered Apprenticeship and Seasonal Internships.

Read about each below.

 
 

Registered Apprenticeship

The Registered Apprenticeship is a two-year paid immersive training program designed to prepare aspiring agrarians for a career in regenerative agriculture. Receive certifications, educational training, and plenty of on-the-job learning in this robust apprenticeship program. Apprentices will work alongside mentors and various producers in the Gunnison Valley to develop proficiency in the following categories:

  • Farm Maintenance

  • Land Access

  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Agribusiness

  • Post-Harvest Handling

  • Personal Growth & Professional Development

  • Crop Production

  • Soil Health

  • Resource Conservation

  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

  • Season Extension

  • Post-Harvest Handling

The Registered Apprenticeship is a paid position. Apprentices will receive a living stipend and wages starting at $17/hr, with a tiered pay increase schedule based on experience and performance.

The Registered Apprenticeship is layered with AmeriCorps’ Healthy Futures Program. Apprentices are eligible for AmeriCorps benefits including housing stipends, education awards, and professional development. Apprentices may also be eligible for federal program assistance (SNAP, Medicaid, etc.)

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE APPRENTICESHIP HERE.

Seasonal Internships

Seasonal internships provide an opportunity for individuals to explore emerging interests in farming, regenerative agriculture, and hydroponics. The internships offer an alternative to the apprenticeship while still providing a well-structured framework to explore farming in a hands-on setting. Earn credits and scholarship awards.

  • Semester-based internships in Gunnison for high school students. Receive a $1,200 scholarship upon successful completion of the internship.

  • Semester-based internships available to students enrolled at Western Colorado University.

    • ENVS 499: Community Food Systems Internship (3 credits) (Spring 2025)

      LEARN MORE

    • ENVS 499: Cold Climate Food Production (3 credits) (Summer 2025)

      LEARN MORE

  • Internships for community members not affiliated with educational institutions. Intern at several regenerative farms in Gunnison Valley.

    Options to intern during Spring Startup, Peak Season, or Full Season.

    Learn more soon.