Pasa’s Agroforestry Training Program is designed to deepen knowledge and support successful adoption of agroforestry practices across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Northern Appalachia.
Sign up to stay informed about Pasa’s agroforestry training program as it develops.
Our aim is to build connections between people interested in trees on farms, whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience to share.
Get involved
We’re currently seeking people interested in participating in our training program.
If you are primarily interested in learning more about designing, implementing, and managing agroforestry systems, fill out the trainee interest form.
If you are interested in sharing your knowledge through mentorship, hosting workshops, or presenting at our conference, fill out the mentor interest form.
Program details
We understand that people interested in agroforestry come with diverse backgrounds, time constraints, and learning preferences. That’s why we’re designing our training program with flexibility at its core.
We recognize that the traditional apprenticeship model doesn’t work for everyone. That’s why we’re developing multiple ways to build your agroforestry knowledge and skills:
– Workshop Series: Attend focused, hands-on workshops throughout the growing season, each addressing specific agroforestry skills and practices.
– Mentorship Connections: Connect with experienced practitioners for site visits, consultations, and guidance tailored to your specific projects and questions.
– Self-Directed Projects: Design and implement agroforestry practices on your own land with structured feedback and support from our network.
Our program is being designed to allow participants to combine these different learning modalities to meet the certificate requirements. For example:
– A farmer with existing land might focus on workshops and mentorship while implementing projects on their own property
– Someone new to farming might prioritize on-the-job training with an established practitioner
– A technical service provider might combine workshops with seasonal intensives to build specific skills
Looking for "on the job" training?
For those seeking comprehensive training, our most robust program will include:
– 400+ hours of on-the-job training with experienced practitioners
– 40+ hours of focused educational instruction
– Demonstrated competency in core agroforestry skills
Below you will find additional details about this on-the-job training opportunity.
Mentors for our “on-the-job” training program include farmers, land managers, and experienced agroforestry practitioners who work with established agroforestry systems and have a passion for sharing their knowledge.
In addition to providing a structured learning experience for your trainee, you can support your own operation and contribute to the growth of agroforestry across the region by sharing best practices, troubleshooting challenges, and deepening your network of collaborators and peers.
• Active Agroforestry Practices: Mentors should already be integrating trees/shrubs within working farm systems or be actively designing and installing agroforestry practices for others.
• Desire to Train: Must commit to providing 40 hours of structured training over one growing season.
• Open Communication: Must participate in regular check-ins with Pasa’a Agroforestry Training Program Coordinator.
Mentor interest form
This program is designed for individuals who see agroforestry as a long-term pursuit – whether you plan to integrate trees on your own land or work in the field on someone else’s.
While prior farm or agroforestry experience is not required, applicants who have little to no experience may be asked to complete introductory coursework before being placed in the matching pool.
Minimum age & availability: Must be at least 18 years old and able to commit to a minimum of 400 hours of on-farm work and training over a growing season.
Physical Ability: Must be capable of performing outdoor farm tasks in varying weather conditions.
Strong Interest: Must demonstrate a desire to learn and continue working in agroforestry or regenerative agriculture beyond the program.
Foundational knowledge: Should have a basic working knowledge of key agroforestry principles. (Individuals without any relevant background may need to complete short, foundational modules such as basic farm safety or agroforestry 101 before being approved as a program trainee).
Additional experience and greater time and geographic availability may broaden your potential mentor matches, but don’t let limited experience discourage you from applying. We welcome passionate learners from a variety of backgrounds.
Trainee interest form
This program is supported by the Richard King Mellon Foundation.
