Great Park considers $145000 program to train 6 veterans to farm ...

IRVINE ? Orange County Great Park is developing an eight-month, $145,000 internship program to train six veterans for employment in the agricultural industry.

The park's board of directors on Thursday is scheduled to vote on the plan, which would benefit military personnel who served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

This photo from 2011 shows a freshly planted grove of orange trees at the Great Park in Irvine. Park officials are considering a $145,000 program to train six veterans for employment in agriculture.

FILE PHOTO: SAM GANGWER, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

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Upon completion of the classroom instruction and field work at the Great Park's 105-acre farm, the graduates would be proficient in sustainable urban agriculture practices, reforestation and restoration, agricultural business assessments and requirements, networking and business-plan writing, according to park staff.

Topics would include pest management, water and irrigation, soil science, greenhouse systems, machinery and technology, handling, shipping and business. The curriculum would focus on the day-to-day requirements of specialty crop farming, with an expanded view toward sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The interns, to be selected by committee from applicants, would receive a "well-rounded education and hands-on experience," the report states.

The program would utilize the park's 105-acre onsite farm and is to be funded and assisted by a coalition of organizations including U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Brandman University in Irvine, Orange County Farm Bureau, Orange County Produce LLC and nonprofit group Orange County Harvest.

According to the report by Great Park staff:

The latest census data reveals that the average American farmer is 57 years old, with two farmers retiring for every one entering the field.

American veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have high unemployment rates.

About 45 percent of military personnel are from rural communities and about 6.1 million veterans live in rural communities. Upon transition to civilian life, these veterans are returning home to communities that lack employment opportunities and access to veteran services.

Future agriculture demands require a food system that is cost efficient and provides an increased amount of food while utilizing less space. High performance agriculture and food education help farmers increase production, conserve resources and provide nutritious foods.

The park's board meeting is at 9 a.m. Thursday at 1 Civic Center, Irvine.

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