LDAF accepting applications for intern program
Forestry and agricultural businesses interested in participating in the Louisiana Agricultural Workforce Development Program (LAWDP) can now submit applications for the 2024-25 program year, according to LDAF.
The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry supports the program, which provides businesses with a monetary incentive to establish intern programs to "grow the next generation of agriculture professionals," according to an LDAF press release.
"Participating businesses may be reimbursed for up to 50 percent of the cost of hiring an intern," the LDAF press release said. "A maximum of $5,000 per internship is allowed."
Qualified agricultural businesses include producers "or a person or legal entity who engages in agriculture or provides support activities, products or services to an agricultural producer and such products or services that are directly related to the planting, growing, production, harvesting or processing of Louisiana products," the release said.
Internships have to offer a minimum of 130 hours of work experience, not exceeding a term of one year. Interns also must be paid a least other minimum wage rate as per the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.
The application period runs through Aug. 31. If approved, the participating business is required to submit an intern application that will be filled out by the intern or beginning farmer, the release said.
"Students currently enrolled at a Louisiana secondary or postsecondary institution or a young and beginning farmer or rancher employed by an agricultural business are eligible to participate in the program," the release stated.
“This program benefits our agriculture and forestry businesses that are struggling to find qualified individuals while simultaneously providing quality, hands-on training opportunities to people pursuing careers within the agriculture and forestry sectors,” said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain. “These interns are the future of Louisiana agriculture and forestry. When we invest in them, we invest in Louisiana.”
Find out more by calling 225-952-8084. Want a program application and guidelines on how to apply? Visit the link below:
