Overview

A farm program coordinator manages urban and community farms with regards to crop growing, maintenance, preparation and harvesting of plants. They also engage the community to learn more about farming by developing educational materials, carrying out workshops and leading tours. Additionally, they train and coordinate volunteers and participants and assist in the planning of farm programing.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Recruit and engage program participants and volunteers
• Assess and evaluate potential new farm plots and identify program sites
• Collaborate on weekly schedules and yearly planning
• Develop educational farm programing
• Develop weekly schedules for farming duties
• Ensure that crops are properly tended to (clearing, tilling, amending, raking, etc.)
• Coordinate with community partners and stakeholders
• Communicate any notable issues and successes to staff as needed
• Create an annual budget and ensure it is adhered to
• Assist with farming social media and marketing initiatives
• Coordinate educational opportunities at the gardens
• Assist with the day-to-day administration for the farm
• Take volunteers through agricultural activities (such as weeding, bed making, planting and harvesting)
• Conduct research on any weeds, pests and diseases that exist in the fields
• Ensure tools and equipment are properly used and stored
• Participate in the development of agricultural-themed events and workshops at the farm

What education and training is required?

The education required to be a farm program coordinator will be dependent on the organization that you work for. However, many require a minimum of a two-year degree in horticulture, agriculture, environmental science or a related field with experience working on small-scale farms. Experience working and volunteering in a teaching role would also be beneficial.

To pursue a career as a Farm Program Coordinator:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, horticulture, animal science, accounting, communications, agricultural mechanics and environmental science.

Where can I work?

Farm program coordinators typically work for nonprofit organizations, local community organizations and municipalities (a city or town’s government), agricultural extension offices, colleges, universities or for small-scale, individually run farms.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• American Community Garden Association
• National Farmers Organization
• State and local agriculture associations