Vancouver Island University’s Cowichan campus is taking a step towards supporting sustainable agriculture with the introduction of three new micro-credential certificates for farmers. These certificates are designed to provide basic education in sustainable agriculture and food production, catering to busy producers who may not have the time to commit to long-term programs. Whether you are a new farmer looking to gain foundational knowledge or a seasoned farmer wanting to expand your skills, these courses offer valuable insights into the science behind sustainable farming practices.
The first three courses in the series, Sustainable Soils Management, Agroecology, and Organic Vegetable Seed Production, are being piloted at VIU’s Cowichan campus in partnership with North Island College. These courses aim to introduce participants to the principles of sustainable agriculture production and provide them with practical skills that can be applied on their farms. Julia Fisher, Lead Program Coordinator, highlighted that these courses are eligible for the StrongerBC future skills grant, which covers tuition, fees, and course materials for eligible short-term training programs. This grant makes the courses accessible to a wider audience within the farming community.
Each course consists of up to 10 sessions, including online classes, readings, exercises, management planning, and guest speakers. Additionally, participants can expect two on-site field days to gain hands-on experience and practical skills. The courses are structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to implement sustainable farming practices on their own farms.
These new micro-credential certificates are a collaboration between VIU, North Island College, and the Continuing Education and Training Association of BC (CETA BC). They address the growing need for science-based agriculture certificates in British Columbia’s small universities and regional colleges. The funding for the soils and seeds courses came from CETA BC, while the Agroecology course was funded by the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. The Seeds MC project also has national partners, including SeedChange and Canadian Organic Growers, further enhancing the credibility and relevance of the courses.
For farmers interested in signing up for these courses or exploring other training programs, they can visit the Farming Fundamentals website or contact VIU Cowichan Professional Development and Training at PDTagriculture@viu.ca. These courses offer a valuable opportunity for farmers to enhance their knowledge and skills in sustainable agriculture, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of the farming community in British Columbia.