Dallas launches new urban agriculture program to train aspiring growers and boost local economy
Dallas, Texas – In a move to strengthen Dallas’ agricultural workforce and improve food access, the City of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability (OEQS) Urban Agriculture Division has partnered with Dallas County Health and Human Services to introduce the Growers Education and Workforce Development Program. This innovative pilot program brings approximately $50,000 in funding to enhance agricultural education and workforce training in the city, aiming to build career pathways in agriculture while supporting Dallas’ Comprehensive Urban Agriculture Plan (CUAP) and environmental goals.
Empowering New Growers Through Practical Training
The Growers Education and Workforce Development Program is set to provide critical resources for aspiring growers, farmworkers, and agribusiness professionals in Dallas. With a focus on controlled environment agriculture and community gardens, the program is designed to connect participants with hands-on mentorship and training, covering everything from practical farming skills to essential business concepts needed in the agricultural sector. As OEQS explains, “participants will gain valuable skills at no financial cost to them,” removing barriers to entry and ensuring equitable access to agricultural training.
Improving Food Access and Supporting Economic Growth
This program’s impact extends beyond workforce development by addressing the city’s goals for accessible, nutritious food in underserved communities. By increasing the number of trained agricultural producers, Dallas hopes to enhance local food production, making fresh produce more accessible in areas that traditionally lack healthy food options. This initiative supports Goal 7 of the City’s Comprehensive Environmental Climate Action Plan (CECAP), which centers on ensuring that all communities in Dallas can access healthy food. The program is also anticipated to contribute positively to the city’s economy by creating pathways to sustainable jobs in the growing field of urban agriculture.
A Key Component of Dallas’ Environmental and Agriculture Goals
The Growers Education and Workforce Development Program plays a pivotal role within the City’s broader Comprehensive Urban Agriculture Plan (CUAP), aligning with the Urban Agriculture Division’s mission to foster a sustainable, equitable food system in Dallas. By investing in local agricultural internships and apprenticeships, the initiative is not only providing educational opportunities but is also building a sustainable model that supports the city’s environmental and social goals. It exemplifies Dallas’ commitment to promoting urban agriculture as a vital part of a resilient food system and a sustainable cityscape.
Application Process
Applications for this unique opportunity are open until December 2, 2024, at midnight. Eligible candidates interested in this chance to advance their skills in urban agriculture can apply by completing the program’s online application form. With a combination of mentorship, skill-building, and a focus on economic and environmental sustainability, the Growers Education and Workforce Development Program promises to be a transformative initiative for Dallas’ agricultural landscape.
