Central Wyoming College Showcases Regenerative Farming with February Event, Enrollment Open for Spring Courses

Lander, Wyo. — Central Wyoming College (CWC) is strengthening local food systems and rural economies through its Regenerative Food Systems program, preparing the next generation of farmers to grow nutritious food while building sustainable farm businesses in Wyoming.

Central Wyoming College understands local challenges, and local opportunity. Through hands-on education and strong community partnerships, CWC helps aspiring and beginning farmers develop the skills needed to succeed in Wyoming’s high-altitude climate while increasing access to affordable, sustainably grown fruits, vegetables, and meat.

“Wyoming producers want to grow food for their local markets, but they face real barriers,” said Ethan Page, Faculty of Local Food and Agriculture and Instructor of the Crop Production Practicum at Central Wyoming College. “High elevation, limited arable land, and a lack of business training can make it difficult to get started. At CWC, we address those challenges head-on with practical, regenerative education that works here.”

A cornerstone of this effort is the Crop Production Practicum, a comprehensive, hands-on course. Students launch the farming season in early April by starting seedlings, preparing beds for direct seeding and transplanting, and learning to manage crops from soil to harvest.

As the season progresses, students gain experience in non-chemical weed and pest control, building healthy soils, succession planting, harvest techniques, and preparing produce for market. The course also includes visits to other small-scale farms and direct participation in local Farmers Markets, giving students real-world exposure to both production and marketing.

“This practicum is about more than growing crops,” Page said. “Students learn how to think like farmers and business owners, how to care for the land, and how to build resilient operations that can adapt to Wyoming conditions and serve their communities.”

CWC’s curriculum emphasizes regenerative farming principles that improve soil health, conserve water, support biodiversity, and strengthen local food systems. Courses such as Agroecology, the Crop Production Practicum, and Food Ethics and Sustainability provide students with both the scientific foundation and applied skills needed for careers in agriculture, food systems, and sustainability.

“At its core, this program is about growing resilient people, food, and communities,” Page said. “Central Wyoming College is leading the way in regenerative agriculture education because we believe strong local food systems are essential to Wyoming’s future.”

Enrollment is now open for spring food systems courses at Central Wyoming College. Space is limited in practicum courses.

Upcoming Event
Thursday, Feb 12, 4-6 p.m.
“Growing Wyoming: Central Wyoming College’s Freight Farm Demonstration”
Meadowlark Market & Kitchen
228 Main St, Lander, WY 82520

For more information, visit  www.cwc.edu/farming and www.cwc.edu/regenerative-farming