Journeyman Farmer Certificate Program
Across the United States and in Georgia, the number of small and medium–sized farms is declining and the average age of farmers is on the rise. Although we need new farmers, the barriers potential farmers face when trying to grow new agricultural businesses from the ground up can be challenging. UGA Extension and partners have developed the Journeyman Farmer Certificate Program to provide a comprehensive training program for beginning farmers.
Check in with your county Extension agent to see if a program is scheduled in your county. Each program is different, so make sure to ask which components of the Journeyman Farmer Certificate Program they plan to offer.
Possible Components of a Journeyman Farmer Certificate Program:
- Small Farm Business Planning or AgAware Training
- Small Fruit & Vegetable Production or Small Ruminants Production,
- Hands-on Production Training (Internship, mentorship, and/or incubator opportunities. If your county is offering this part of the program, please check in with the county agent for more information) *Not available with every Journeyman Program*
Participants are welcome to travel to any classes offered around the state, so if there is not a program being offered in your county, you may also check with other county Extension agents to see if one is being held nearby. You will receive a certificate if you take the classes and pass the knowledge evaluation that follows the classes. Please realize that counties offering Hands-On Production Trainings may only have opportunities available in their county.
Again, call your county Extension office with any questions you have regarding the program. If your county is not currently offering the program, you can let your county agent know you are interested and they may be able to offer the program in the future.
Program Locations
Please check with your County Extension Agent to find out if a program will be offered in your county. Find your agent here: https://extension.uga.edu/county-offices.html