In 2008, for the first time in recorded history, the world's
population became primarily urban. Some urban areas are growing at twice the
rate of rural areas. While DC is not growing as rapidly, its population
continues to increase. This trend is expected to continue for the foreseeable
future. CAUSES is uniquely positioned as a world-leader in the Urban Ag
movement through our Research, Academic, and Outreach programs. In response, we
launched a non-credit bearing certificate program in Sustainable Agriculture in 2014.
The Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate, which begins September 12, 2016, consists of three
classes (1 prerequisite course + (Option 1 or Option 2). The
program offers two different options:
- Option 1: Urban Agriculture Techniques
- Option 2: Business Principles in Urban Agriculture
Classes meet twice per week in the evenings or once on the weekend. A certificate of completion will be issued at the successful completion of each class.
To receive a certificate in Sustainable Urban Agriculture, participants will pay a one-time fee of $200. If a participant wishes to take individual classes, the cost is $60 per class. Payment must be made at the time of the first class, by check to the University of the District of Columbia.
Continue reading for a description of the classes.
Principles of Sustainable Urban Agriculture (prerequisite for both options)
This course will provide students with a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of sustainable urban agriculture in our local and global communities. Students will be introduced to the economic, environmental, social impacts of sustainable agriculture. Upon completion, students will be able to identify and apply the principles of sustainable agriculture as they relate to basic production practices.
This course covers high efficiency growing and production methods for urban growers. The course will be conducted at the Muirkirk Research Farm located at 12001 Old Baltimore Pike, Beltsville, MD. This course is one day in length.
This course covers innovative technologies and techniques used for urban
farming systems. Technologies include the Flo-Vex® aeration device,
hydroponics, renewable energy & conservation, and aquaponics. Upon
completion, students should be able to identify and recommend innovative
technologies and techniques for urban farming systems.
This session helps develop a comprehensive understanding of urban agriculture as it relates to site selection, site planning and physical design. You will be taught what you need to know to select, build and physically maintain an urban farm site for both horizontal and vertical farming. Construction of hoop houses will be discussed and sustainable energy applications on urban farms will be explored as well.
This course will provide students with a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of sustainable urban agriculture in our local and global communities. Students will be introduced to the economic, environmental, social impacts of sustainable agriculture. Upon completion, students will be able to identify and apply the principles of sustainable agriculture as they relate to basic production practices.
Option 1: Urban Agriculture Techniques
High Efficiency Bio-Intensive Methods for Food and Nutritional Security
This course covers high efficiency growing and production methods for urban growers. The course will be conducted at the Muirkirk Research Farm located at 12001 Old Baltimore Pike, Beltsville, MD. This course is one day in length.
Urban Agriculture: Innovations
Option 2: Business in Urban Agriculture
Business Principles of Sustainable Agriculture
This course is a specialized section of Introduction to Entrepreneurship that focuses on sustainable agriculture. The course will cover the basic economic and business principles regarding small-scale business enterprises connected to agriculture, with a particular focus on sustainable agriculture in Washington, DC. With a focus on the creation of a business plan, topics include researching and evaluating resources, planning, marketing, cultivating money resources, and understanding key concepts in law, budgeting, financial statements, and business documentation.Sustainable Site Planning and Design
This session helps develop a comprehensive understanding of urban agriculture as it relates to site selection, site planning and physical design. You will be taught what you need to know to select, build and physically maintain an urban farm site for both horizontal and vertical farming. Construction of hoop houses will be discussed and sustainable energy applications on urban farms will be explored as well.
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