The Seedleaf Agroforestry Program (SAP) builds off growing interests in permaculture and food forest practices. SAP works with established growers and individuals interested in increasing farm revenues or implementing sustainable landscape design by incorporating fruit, nut, fungi, and medicinal herb production into their businesses.  SAP is led by Russ Turpin, an ISA-certified arborist with over 20 years of experience in environmental restoration, and ecological stewardship in landscape design, installation, and management. Those who enter and complete the program are primed to be able to respond to the issues of food insecurity, climate adaptation, and regional conservation efforts within their business operations. 

Seedleaf’s Agroforestry training program runs for eight months with class cohorts of four to six students. Participants meet for three hours at the Seedleaf Farm to cover monthly module topics and engage in hands-on observation, practice, and group discussions. The program covers subjects such as tool use and maintenance, skills of landscape observation, complementary plant communities, regional native fruiting trees and shrubs, as well as landscape design problem-solving, and techniques such as no/low-till crop production and intercropping.

Our efforts are geared toward supporting and encouraging the successful development of farm businesses and career opportunities for local farmers, landscape designers, and landscape care specialists. Enrollment occurs through our website and social media for participants as well as through word of mouth with community partners. The program primarily takes place at Seedleaf's 30-acre Headwater farm location in North Fayette County and sites selected for educational demonstration throughout our service area in North Lexington.

Sign up for the Seedleaf Agroforestry Program today by completing the form below! This program offers an incredible opportunity to engage in sustainable farming practices, learn about the benefits of agroforestry, and contribute to a greener future. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, an aspiring farmer, or simply passionate about environmental conservation, this initiative is tailored to help you grow alongside your community. By participating, you'll gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge about cultivating food-producing trees and plants in harmony with the environment. Fill out the form below to take the first step toward a thriving and resilient ecosystem!