Will Organic Farming Bring Economic Opportunities to Portland's Somali Population?

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Portland, Maine -- 10 low-income Somali teens from Portland are taking part in a pilot training program in organic farm management.

This past Monday they began their 3 month program through the Center for African Heritage by cleaning out an abandoned barn and house on Falmouth’s River Point property’s previously fertile farmland.

"We began working with parents and kids to strengthen their relationship," Center for African Heritage consultant Paul Young told The Forecaster. "They were eager to become involved (with farming) again; as the project developed in Cumberland, it emphasized family integration – preserving families as well as imparting farm skills."

Do you think organic farming in Maine can provide economic opportunities to African immigrants, as the story suggests? Share your thoughts below.

Photo provided by flickr user moon angel CC 2.0.