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.
2026 update
With design plans finalized, construction has begun 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.
In 2026, we’re excited to launch the Black Butterfly Urban Farm Academy (BBUFA) Field School, a hands-on, seasonally guided training program designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of urban agriculture and prepare them for more advanced BBUFA programs launching in 2027.
About the Program
Running from March through December, the BBUFA Field School offers an accessible entry point for anyone interested in learning how to grow food in the city. No previous farming experience is required.
The program is structured around three seasons—spring, summer, and fall—and focuses on practical, in-the-field learning. Most sessions will take place at the Farm Alliance of Baltimore’s teaching farm in South Baltimore, with occasional classroom-based sessions depending on the topic.
Classes will meet for 2 hours, 2x a month. Registration and more details on our Eventbrite.
A Pathway Forward
The BBUFA Field School is designed as a pipeline into other BBUFA programs currently in development, including the BBUFA On-Farm Fellowship and the BBUFA Incubator.
Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook & Instagram for future updates and announcements.
For additional questions, please contact Denzel Mitchell denzel@farmalliancebaltimore.org