MN HF545

$150,000 appropriated for fiscal year 2016 and $600,000 for fiscal year 2017 to establish a veterans-to-agriculture pilot program through Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Program provides intensive four- to eight-week academic training in agriculture and food production, processing, and distribution, along with job development and career-building skills for military veterans.

South Central College's North Mankato campus coordinates the program in collaboration with University of Minnesota Extension, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

Program shall be delivered at up to six state college sites statewide: one site in the seven-county metropolitan area with an urban agriculture component, and remaining sites outside the metro area with existing farm business management programs.

Program must report to relevant legislative committees by December 15, 2017, on participation rates, job placements, and unmet needs.