Wisconsin Ag Connection - Scholarships Available for UW Short Course, School for Beginning Farmers

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Scholarships Available for UW Short Course, School for Beginning Farmers
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 03/06/2008

April 1st is the deadline to apply for more than $130,000 worth of scholarships for the 2008-09 Farm and Industry Short Course at the University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences; as well as scholarships for the campus' School for Beginning Dairy and Livestock Farmers.

The 124-year-old Short Course program offers more than 40 courses in a variety of specialty areas. These include dairy farm management, beef/swine management, farm mechanics, farm service and supply, crops and soils, and for the second year, a green industry track with courses in production landscape construction and greenhouse management. Practical on-the-job experience is available through internships. Last year 135 students enrolled in the short course program.

Students admitted to the School for Beginning Dairy & Livestock Farmers will participate in sessions and seminars focused on the management of grazing-based dairy or livestock farms. Students are mentored by experienced graziers, successful business leaders and UW-Madison faculty and staff. On-farm internships often are a popular option. A variety of scholarships are available.

"We're looking for bright, motivated individuals who dream of starting their own pasture-based dairy or livestock business," said school director Dick Cates. "This one-of-a-kind program offers financial support, classroom learning, seminars taught by farmers and researchers, help with business plans, internships, and mentoring to help launch successful businesses."

For more information, the Short Course office can be reached at 608-588-2836. Call the WSBDF office can be reached at 608-265 6437.

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