Farmhand
Tasks & Responsibilities:
What is expected of a student in the market garden? A student is expected to help in all aspects of raising, harvesting, and selling produce. This means he or she will be in the field learning and practicing methods of planting, cultivating, weeding, and picking vegetables and cut flowers. In addition, he or she will be expected to sell at one of the farmers markets we attend at least once a week. What is expected of a student with livestock? A student will learn how to move,water, and feed the meat chickens which are in field shelters. He or she will also share responsibility for feeding, watering, and collecting eggs from the laying hens. Once a month we process our meat chickens, so participation in the butchering process is expected.
Qualifications:
While no previous farming experience is needed, a student should have an interest in organic/sustainable agriculture and be a sincere and committed addition to the farm’s staff. What are desired qualities for a student? A student is encouraged to be hard working, flexible, upbeat, have a positive attitude, and open to give and receive feedback. The ability to lift 50 pounds and work in varying weather conditions such as rain and strong heat are preferred. There will be no alcohol or drug use during work hours. It is expected that all students will behave appropriately and cooperate with others.
Learning Opportunities:
Broadly, we strive to give a student a deeper awareness of their connection to the earth in order to see how farming can be a remedy to heal the life cycles we depend on. We will educate a student on organic farming practices and a sustainable approach to agriculture so that the student will be given the tools to transfer gained knowledge about farming to future endeavors. (20-30 hours per week).
