Introduction to Tropical Agricultural Development
Presented By: ECHO
Those interested in preparing for short to long-term involvement in international agriculture development are encouraged to participate in this five-day course. Topics and discussions will be centered on improved food security and agricultural livelihoods for small-scale farmers in developing countries. Participants will be introduced to the complexities related to poverty and community development. They will also be introduced to principles and practices that contribute toward maintaining healthy and productive soil as well as improved water management and crop production (e.g., annuals and perennials). The vital role of livestock and appropriate technology is also incorporated into the course. During the week, activities will include presentations, farm-based practicums, consultations with ECHO staff and opportunities for research in the ECHO Resource Library.
Who the course is for:
This course will especially benefit those who are considering short- or long-term involvement in international agricultural development work. It can also be of benefit to those who have been on the field doing development work for a few years but who would like to take a step back and re-evaluate their approach. Those who could benefit from this course include short-term or career missionaries, international project volunteers (e.g. Peace Corps), leaders of relief-oriented organizations, or missions committee leaders of churches involved in agricultural projects overseas.
What is offered:
This course covers a broad range of topics relevant to those starting out in agricultural development in a tropical environment. The purpose of this class is to expose you to several different ideas and concepts. Although a significant amount of time will be spent looking at examples on the ECHO Farm, given the breadth of topics covered, extensive hands-on farm work should not be an expectation of taking this course.
Event Details
Location
ECHO Campus
17391 Durrance Road North Fort Myers, Florida 33917 United States
Language
All course material is presented in English.
Unfortunately ECHO cannot provide interpretation/translation for our courses. However, our November International Agriculture Conference does provide interpretation services. To learn more, contact conference@echonet.org
Cost
Early Bird Rate (before December 30): $645
Spouse Early Bird Rate: $495
Late Registration Fee: $745 starting December 31.
Late Spouse Rate: $520.00
Registration fees include:
- Week-long course
- Meals (Sunday evening through Saturday morning).
- Housing
Registration does not include:
- Transportation to or from the Airport
You can arrive on January 6 and stay through January 12th.
Are you a Southwest Florida local? Ask about our discounts at study@echonet.org
Payment Options
Payment must be made online, using a valid credit or debit card.
Lodging
Lodging is provided on campus.
ECHO is a working farm, and lodging options include dormitory style as well as shared guesthouses, depending on availability.
If you are a couple, ECHO will try to accomodate housing.
Please notify ECHO of any family members that will be traveling to ECHO (study@echonet.org) far ahead of time. There may be additional fees for family members even if they do not attend the course.
Food
Registration fees include all meals for Monday morning - Saturday morning.
At this time we are not always able to accommodate those with special dietary needs or food allergies.
If you have a specific diet you follow or you have food allergies- please contact Renee Gill at study@echonet.org.
Additional Opportunities
Florida resident? - please contact rgill@echonet.org for discounted rates
Attended a previous ECHO Florida Training? - please contact rgill@echonet.org for your discount
Groups of 3 or more will recieve 20% discount.
Additional Information
Suggested Reading:
Roland Bunch wrote a book called "Two Ears of Corn", which gives a great overview of concepts to consider in undertaking any development project. (This book is currently out of print.)
"Agriculture Options for the Small Scale Farmer" published by ECHO. It is a compilation of information available in the first 100 issues of ECHO Development Notes.
Amaranth to Zai Holes can be accessed online; it summarizes information from the first 51 issues of our quarterly publication, ECHO Development Notes---the link is:
Amaranth to Zai Holes
Cancellation Policy - ECHO Classes
Payment for ECHO classes is required at the time of registration. Due to the nature of the class, we require at least 2-weeks notice of cancellation to receive a full refund of your fees. If less than 2-weeks notice is given a refund will not be issued.
These courses are interest-driven, therefore we reserve the right to cancel an course due to lack of interest. Should a cancellation be necessary, we will do so two weeks before the first day of class.
Suggested items to pack:
It is always a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater. More than likely, though, highs will be in the 80's and 90's for both the May and Aug dates. As there will be time built in for being on the farm and possibly working with our interns, bring a set of clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle and insect repellent would be good to include in your luggage. It may also be helpful to bring a flashlight to use in walking around campus after dark.