Agricultural Volunteers work with small-scale farmers and families to increase food security and production and adapt to climate change while promoting environmental conservation practices. They introduce farmers to techniques that prevent soil erosion, reduce the use of harmful pesticides, and replenish the soil. They work alongside farmers on integrated projects that often combine vegetable gardening, livestock management, agroforestry, and nutrition education.

If you choose Agriculture, take three courses from one of the following areas:

• Environmental Science
• Integrated Science and Technology
• Dietetics
• Biology or Geology
• Environmental Management
• Environmental Humanities
• Business or economics

And build 50 hours of related field experience through an activity such as (but not limited to):

• Working with a large-scale or family-run business involving vegetable gardening, farming, nursery work, tree planting or care, urban forestry, landscaping, livestock care and management, or fish cultivation and production
• Contacting Vine & Fig (New Community Project), Radical Roots Farm, or Project GROWS
• Working on the business management or marketing side of a commercial farm
• Teaching or tutoring the public in environmental or agricultural issues/activities
• Getting involved with Valley Conservation Council’s storm-water fencing programming
• Volunteering to help promote and support the numerous Farm-to-Table initiatives spread throughout the Shenandoah Valley region
• Volunteering with the Virginia Poultry Federation’s producer and grower cooperative programming
• Volunteering with the Harrisonburg Farmer’s Market
• Volunteering with the Farm Credit Knowledge Center
• Volunteering with Sky Meadows State Park (vegetable garden)
• Volunteering with Project GROWS (spring, summer and fall internships are available)
• Volunteering with Liberty Hall Livestock Rescue

This is a sample of service opportunities offered in the Harrisonburg community. Please visit Community Service-Learning for additional service opportunities and information about the Alternative Break Program. Paid and unpaid internships also can meet this requirement. Please see the University Career Center for internship opportunities.