The Agurban from Boomtown Institute - College Classes in Alternative Agriculture
| December 5, 2007 |  View for printing |
A trend we have written about a number of times in both our blogs and Agurban is that of niche agriculture. A recent headline in our local Chamber's Business Report caught my eye - "Lake Land College offers new program - Alternative Agriculture Production". Lake Land College is our local junior college.
In October, Lake Land College began offering the class, billed as an alternative program to traditional agricultural studies. The program is for students who are aware of changing consumer demands and attitudes, and are interested in the production of livestock, food and fiber in a sustainable, environmentally safe manner.
"Students will receive hands-on experience through an internship or mentor program and, upon graduation, they will have career opportunities in several areas," said Curt Rinker, agriculture division chair.
The program is supported by Illinois Stewardship Alliance. Gayle Keiser, executive director of the Alliance, commented, "This is a great opportunity for students who might otherwise not have considered agriculture as a career. In addition, alternative agriculture does not require a large amount of acreage."
The Alternative Agriculture Production curriculum is designed for students planning to transfer to a four- year institution of higher learning and earn a bachelor of science degree in a agriculture production field. After successfully completing the two-year associate degree, a student will be able to transfer to several Illinois universities.
Expect to see more and more of these types of classes offered at your local community colleges and universities.
The Blog Log Visit my weblog to see where I've been and what I have learned along the way.
On the road again... In addition to my travel blog I'll list my upcoming engagements in each issue of The Agurban. Come see me when I'm in your neighborhood!
Jack's Schedule
Upcoming Speaking Engagements:
January 15, 2008 - Council Bluff, IA - Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce January 17, 2008 - Chico, CA - Annual Economic Forecast Conference January 19, 2008 - St. Louis, MO - State Agriculture and Rural Leaders -Agriculture Chairs Summit IV
Jack Schultz is the CEO of Boomtown Institute and Agracel Inc., an industrial development firm majoring in rural America, author of Boomtown USA, and speaker. Boomtown Institute serves as an economic development mentor to communities across the United States, leading communities to realize their full potential.
Visit the Boomtown Institute website at www.boomtowninstitute.com Keep up with Jack as he tours the country on his blog! To learn more about Agracel visit www.agracel.com.
email: agurban@boomtowninstitute.com
phone: 217-342-3000
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