ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses research findings on young and beginning farmer training programs in Ontario. It draws on interviews with a small sample of women farmers practicing sustainable or small-scale ecologically oriented farming who deliver farm youth training programs. Rather than focusing on the experiences of youth interns, the paper investigates the work contributions of those who provide the training – the women farmers – and discusses their backgrounds, their food politics, and their commitment to engaging youth in sustainable farming. Referring to feminist perspectives on gender and work, the chapter argues small-scale women farmers are important contributors to developing food alternatives and to offering innovative ways of delivering education and training in sustainable farming. However, the range of skills they bring to their role as trainers and educators are not fully recognized, and they often do not receive needed substantive supports for their diligent and creative efforts.
