SMTN TSU New Farmer Academy
The Southern Middle Tennessee TSU New Farmer Academy is a 7-month certificate program designed for those with an interest in becoming agricultural entrepreneurs. Ideal candidates for this program include those who are new to agriculture, those who wish to transition into agriculture from another field such as military service or private sector work, or those who are looking for a post-retirement opportunity.
The program focuses on teaching the concepts, providing the information, and facilitating the hands-on experience needed to build solid, viable, and successful agricultural businesses
Farm Business & Marketing Basics
Over multiple sessions, you will learn to identify the appropriate enterprise for you and your farm, how to start your business, and how to navigate the regulatory issues of the agricultural world. Additionally, you’ll learn about some of the most effective marketing strategies like farmers markets and CSAs, and how to apply for grants and other types of assistance available to new farmers.
Agricultural Production Practices
A portion of each session will be dedicated to helping you establish and/or maintain productive and efficient operations, covering topics like soil health, livestock production, fruit and vegetable production, beekeeping, irrigation strategies, organic production, greenhouse management, and hydroponics.
Hands-on Experience
In addition to classroom instruction, the New Farmer Academy provides hands-on experiential sessions on topics including fruit tree pruning and care, drip irrigation and plasticulture, fencing installation and repair, GPS/GIS mapping, sprayer calibration, and equipment operation/safety.
Additional Info
This course is primarily field based with minimum classroom time. Classes will meet in both indoor and outdoor locations around Franklin, Giles, Lincoln, Marshall, and Moore Counties. Participants should expect to experience a variety of Middle Tennessee weather conditions throughout the course. Classes will only reschedule in the event of extreme weather events. Transportation will be on your own.
Please visit https://www.tnstate.edu/extension/nfa.aspx for more details!
Dates
March 26, 2027
April 23, 2027
May 28, 2027
June 25, 2027
July 23, 2027
August 27, 2027
September 24, 2027
Time
Each class will be from 9am – 5pm CST
Registration Fee
$200 per person (includes textbook, materials, and lunches)
Registration Deadline
March 12, 2027
To Register
Please fill out the registration form below and mail it, along with your payment, to our office at:
ATTN: New Farmer Academy
UT-TSU Extension – Franklin County
330 Joyce Ln.
Winchester, TN 37398
If you need scholarship information, please see the “Scholarships” tab.
Scholarships
Local Scholarship Opportunities:
In memory of Mrs. Jenni Goodrich, a dedicated Tennessee State University Extension agent, a limited number of scholarships will be available each year through the Southern Middle Tennessee TSU New Farmer Academy. Jenni was the first agent to bring the TSU New Farmer Academy to East Tennessee, and through her programming and passion for service, made a huge impact in agriculture and Veteran communities across the nation.
Other scholarship opportunities:
There are other funding opportunities available through these wonderful partners: