Central Virginia Urban Farmer Fellowship recruiting new participants

Happily Natural Day is accepting applications for the next Central Virginia Urban Farmer Fellowship, a 12-week training program designed to help residents turn vacant lots and underused spaces into community farms and other green spaces. Applications are due Dec. 31, according to an announcement from the Richmond-based nonprofit.

The program covers regenerative agriculture, urban agroforestry, compact farm design and installation, project management, volunteer coordination and community building skills. Organizers said graduates may serve as community liaisons, project managers or volunteer coordinators and can receive continued support through tools, equipment, land access, funding opportunities and apprenticeships on regional urban farms.

Classes are small, with generally 12-16 participants, and will combine classroom instruction with hands-on service learning. Applicants must be at least 18-years-old. The fellowship is scheduled for Jan. 23 to April 19, 2027.

Applications are available at thenaturalfestival.com/fellowship. Questions may be sent to happilynaturalday@gmail.com.