Chatfield Farms Veterans Farm Program

In 2014, Chatfield Farms teamed up with Veterans to Farmers to provide a dual track program to the veteran community. Veteran participants develop job skills, learn how to operate a small farm, engage with different communities, create relationships with other service members and receive financial compensation for their participation.

In support of the Gardens’ institutional mission of connecting people with plants, Veterans Farm Program connects military veterans to a farming career, specifically small-scale vegetable production, in a way that engages the mind, body and soul in a holistic approach to sustainable living.

During the 21-week session participants will discuss key farming/business topics, work/train with Chatfield Farms staff and tour other local farms.

Key Farming Topics

• Soil
• Seeds/Plant Propagation
• Irrigation
• Pests and Disease
• Equipment
• Harvest/Post Harvest
• Market Experience
• Beekeeping
• GMOs
• Cover Crops
• Composting
• Canning/Preserving
• Mindfulness
• Agri-tourism
• ...and more!

Business Planning Topics (winter months only)

• Mission/Vision Statement
• Goal Setting
• SWOT Analysis
• Crop Planning
• Profit/Cost Analysis
• Insurance
• Licensing
• Recordkeeping
• Marketing
• Grant Writing/Funding
• Agri-tourism
• Public Speaking

2024 Summer Session

Veteran Farms Program Application

Email royce.hale@botanicgardens.org for more information.

How to get involved: After you fill out an application, we will be in touch to schedule an interview. We value the hard work that each participant adds to the farms so there is a stipend each individual receives throughout the course.  

Veterans to Farmers Greenhouse Management Program

Controlled Environment Agriculture – Hydroponics

Send an email to rich@veteranstofarmers.org with any questions and to sign up.