The Regenerative Agriculture Veteran Education program operates a farm within the 600-acre VFW National Home (VFWNH) in Eaton Rapids, paving the way for veterans to engage in regenerative and climate-smart agriculture while earning degrees that advance their career and create opportunity. This innovative program is supported by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund. 

Additionally, through Cleary University’s First Responder Program, program members have the flexibility to combine course work with individualized agriculture enterprises that work toward their career goals. The Regenerative Agriculture Veteran Education program supports five full-time members implementing regenerative practices on a dedicated seven-acre parcel. Members have the opportunity to enroll at Cleary University to pursue degrees that will build on their farm experience, developing robust business skills and knowledge. This initiative provides veterans with hands-on experience that directly relates to their degree programs and future career while allow them to apply those principles on the farm.   

Members are responsible for developing individual and joint regenerative agriculture enterprises that take their ideas from the soil to the customer. As beginning farmers, members execute all facets of production agriculture, including soil preparation, planting, pest control, harvesting and marketing. Members develop a wide range of skills and knowledge in agronomy, horticulture, animal husbandry and other foundational concepts, while learning how to implement regenerative practice across diverse farms and commodities. 

In-person seminars on regenerative agriculture and business topics are held both on-site and off-site, further enriching the learning experience. As part of their training, each member receives personalized support from MDARD and partner staff to identify and execute a regenerative capstone project that aligns with their individual interests.  Projects include apiculture, pasture raised chickens, perennial native flowers, innovative cover crop strategies and novel pest management. The program serves as a vital introduction for veterans and individuals interested in the agricultural sector, offering them the resources and support needed to advance their careers, whether by starting their own farming ventures or joining firms that specialize in regenerative practices. By the end of their experience, participants will feel empowered to take the next steps in their agricultural journey. 

The Regenerative Agriculture Veteran Education program is more than just a training ground – it is a community dedicated to equipping veterans with the skills and confidence to thrive in regenerative agriculture. Through hands-on experience, classroom learning and a supportive network, this initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on both its participants, the environment, and our rural communities.