The Community Resilience Hub and Rodale Institute proudly announce:

The Heartland RIFT Program

Are you passionate about sustainable agriculture? Interested in starting your own small farm? Kansas Wesleyan University’s Community Resilience Hub is launching the Rodale Institute Farmer Training (RIFT) in Salina, KS, with registration opening in fall 2024. This renowned program is designed for aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs committed to regenerative farming practices.

Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to equip participants with the knowledge and skills essential for success in farming while being good stewards of the land. Whether you’re new to agriculture or are looking to transition to regenerative practices, our expert instructors and mentors will guide you every step of the way.

The Community Resilience Hub is committed to educating and assisting farmers in the transition to regenerative farming practices. Within the next 24 months, we will be developing a program with the organic farming experts at Rodale Institute with the ultimate goal of offering its RIFT (Rodale Institute Farmer Training) training in Salina, Kansas.

Regenerative Farming Principles
Soil Health Management
Holistic Land Stewardship Techniques
Sustainable Food Systems

Environmental Stewardship
Agroecology
Soil Science
Agricultural Humanities

Hands-on Experiences
Pest Management
Planting & Harvesting
Animal Husbandry

Business and Marketing Training 

Community Engagement and Networking

Details:
This is a full-time, eight-month, accredited program that begins May 17, 2025. It is ideal for those passionate about sustainable agriculture including students who are graduating from college, individuals seeking a second-career, veterans and those interested in learning regenerative farming practices to start or convert an existing farm.

Please contact Alexander Hurla (785-833-4569) if you are interested in learning more or applying to the May 2025 cohort.

More Information for Farmers

Currently, the CRH is a key partner in the Kansas Food Corridor project, connecting organic farmers with rural communities along Interstate 135 between Wichita and Salina. Read more about this exciting project, join the Food Corridor mailing list or contact Sheila Kjellberg, CRH coordinator.

For more information on regenerative agriculture, explore our Resources page, visit The Rodale Institute‘s website, or explore resources at the National Resources Defense Council, such as Regenerative Agriculture 101 (English) (Español).

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