UI Extension Program Looks To Help Veterans Find A Home In Ag

A new program in Boise is helping military veterans cultivate careers in agriculture. University of Idaho Extension has launched a new version of its Harvest Heroes program at Spaulding Ranch Park in partnership with the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Idaho and the City of Boise.

Veterans will receive hands-on training in small-scale farming, working alongside Extension educators and experienced farmer mentors to grow produce in a community market garden. The free program also includes online classes, workshops, and access to orchard, beekeeping, and farmers market resources.

Many Vets Call Idaho Home

“Idaho ranks seventh in the nation in veteran population, and for some, agriculture is a good fit for their considerable skills and desire to continue serving their country,” said UI Extension area educator Ariel Agenbroad, Ada County, who is the grant’s principal investigator. “We know that they encounter significant barriers to entry like access to land, education and training, peer mentorship and sometimes service-connected disabilities. We hope to reach folks who are interested in learning to farm and provide them with a place and the resources to explore the possibilities, as well as veterans who are already farming so that we can support their success.”

The effort is supported by a three-year, $744,000 USDA grant designed to help veterans overcome barriers to farming, including access to land, training, and mentorship.

Effort Expected To Help Veterans In Several Ways

Organizers say agriculture can provide veterans with new career opportunities, a sense of purpose, and stronger community connections. Produce grown through the program will be shared among participants and distributed to organizations serving food-insecure veterans and community members.

Enrollment is open year-round through University of Idaho Extension. Anyone wishing to become involved in the new Harvest Heroes program in Boise may contact Extension by e-mailing Harvest Heroes.

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