Field Day Family Farm Apprenticeship

Contact

Carol Gundersen

Activities

urban, farming, gardening, csa, education, retail, marketing

Description

beekeeper Field Day Family Farm's apprenticeship program is primarily on the job training. Apprentices will be expected to work in most, if not all, of the areas that make the operation an actual working farm. Apprentices will be expected to work 45 hrs./wk., in conditions that are, by turns, hot, dirty, cold, and rainy, and physically very demanding. Apprentices can expect to work on some days in excess of 10 hours. Having said all this, we are also committed to education and we would expect the season-long apprenticeship to give sufficient foundation, both practical and somewhat theoretical, so that a motivated apprentice might ably operate his or her own small-scale production operation.

Stipend

$350-$400/month + end of season bonus for those completing a full term.

Program

We are accepting applicants for the 2008 season. Apprentices can start as early as March or as late as June 1. While previous farm experience might prove helpful, it is not necessary. Beyond this, our farm is seeking people with strong work ethics and a genuine interest in agriculture. Ideal candidates would balance self-motivation and self-confidence and an ability to work alone with a willingness to seek and accept direction. A four week trial period and check-in are required to assure our compatibility.

In addition to on the job training, including many, in the field, spontaneous learning opportunities, apprentices can expect to participate in informal discussions on many topics of sustainable agricultural concern. Apprentices can expect an early day-long orientation as well as a minimum of 15-20 classes. Classes will be various and diverse, with some requiring reading and with others involving in the field demonstrations. Still others will combine hands on and theoretical opportunities. 1-2 classes will remain open to areas of apprenticeship interest and concern. Field trips to other area farms will also be arranged according to apprentice interest. At this point, we are also looking to see if we can arrange (and financially justify) longer stints at other area farms. Apprentices will also have the opportunity of being occasional collaborators in the farm's efforts at community outreach.

Our 100-year-old farm house is smoke-free, with three bedrooms, kitchen, and shower. Part of the house will be used for class time and farm business.

Food from the farm is available with few restrictions. We try to share a meal on most Friday afternoons.