Launched in 2021, the Black Butterfly Urban Farmer Academy began as a pilot program, made possible through funding from the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program. This 9-month training program focuses on sustainable agriculture methods and farm business planning through classroom sessions, on-farm work, and field days. It is designed to provide micro-scaled urban farm training to people who live and/or work in the “butterfly wings” of Baltimore City—especially those who are socially disadvantaged (see USDA 2501 definition.)
The Academy has already graduated two inspiring cohorts of farmers who are now making their mark in the food system. Their success continues to motivate us as we grow and strengthen the pipeline for future farmers.
We are deeply grateful to the staff, board, farmer members, community, and friends whose inspiration, ideas, and partnership have made this dream a reality. And a special thank you to Dr. Lawrence Brown, whose academic scholarship gave us the language of the “Black Butterfly.” We are honored to uplift his work and encourage everyone to read his powerful book, The Black Butterfly: The Harmful Politics of Race and Space in America.
2025 update
Now, we’re entering an exciting new chapter. With design plans finalized, construction is beginning on our Teaching Farm—the demonstration and education backbone of the Academy. This space will be a dynamic hub for teaching, growing, and community-building, and we can’t wait to bring it to life.
While we will not be launching a new cohort in 2025 in order to fast-track construction, we’re already looking ahead. 2026 holds promise for a new iteration of the Academy, along with expanded opportunities for training and engagement. Stay tuned as those plans take shape.
We continue to offer classes, workshops, and field days to our farm members, burgeoning farmers and the public.
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For additional questions, please contact Denzel Mitchell denzel@farmalliancebaltimore.org