Market Garden Apprenticeship

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Market Garden Apprenticeship Available in North Carolina – 2019

April 1- October 31
Marshall, NC (Blue Ridge Mountains)

Highgate Farm, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a Certified Naturally Grown market garden. Established in 2006 Highgate Farm is inspired by the traditional Market Gardens of southern France. With great attention to detail, we produce high quality mixed vegetables, fruits, mushrooms, flowers and eggs for sale at area tailgate markets and through our CSA.

Each season we enjoy building community and inspiring young growers by sharing our combined 35+ years of knowledge, experience and skills, as well as the beauty of the land and rhythms of the season with Apprentices, Summer Interns, WWOOFers and local work-traders.

Market Garden Apprenticeship Description: We provide one-on-one and group training and experience in small scale produce operations following organic methods.  Apprentices begin by working closely with John and Melissa, the owner/operators of Highgate Farm, and other experienced workers. As skills are mastered, Apprentices will be expected to work more autonimously and lead a small work crew on selected tasks.  Activities will include greenhouse propagation, all aspects of field work from seeding/transplanting through cultivation, harvest and clean-up, processing and packing product and participating in market sales. Regular field rounds, and a weekly planning and debriefing meeting are also part of the schedule. Apprentices can expect to participate in farm and homestead related activities as needed, from 30 to 50 hrs. each week. A minimum of one day off each week will be provided to each individual as well as opportunities to participatate in homesteading activities as time allows. Occasional group outings for swimming, ice cream, beers, music, etc. are also included.
A variety of other learning opportunites are also available and include access to our exensive reference library, access to CRAFT workshops and social events, the plethora of resources and workshops available through our local NC Cooperative Extension Center, Organic Growers School, ASAP, and other area farmers.

Compensation: A stipend up to $500/month with one week PTO is provided, along with plenty of fresh produce.
Accommodations are off grid and include a shared bunkhouse or tent platform, shared kitchen/lodge, composting toilet and hot outdoor shower. Power is available for recharging batteries and electronics.

Qualifications: A strong desire to learn about food and food production is required. Those who are ready to learn and find satisfaction in hard work and a job well done will find much success here. Some experience working with plants and food is helpful. Expect to get up early, and work long hours performing physically demanding work in sometimes harsh conditions. General work skills of reliability  and follow through, clear, respectful communication, and attention to detail are expected. A cheerful disposition is most appreciated!

We recommend apprentices bring their own transportation or be prepared to have limited access to off-farm activities, negotiating shared rides with others. The ability to prepare meals from fresh and minimally processed ingredients will be beneficial.

To Apply for a Market Garden Apprenticeship send letter of interest, resume, and a minimum of 2 employment/volunteer-related references to highgatefarm@earthlink.net

 

• Learn more about farming and food jobs and internships, or learn how to post a job, internship, or apprenticeship opportunity on beginningfarmers.org by going to https://www.beginningfarmers.org/internship-and-employment-opportunities/