Farm Apprenticeships in Arkansas
Find Farm Apprenticeships in Arkansas with the CAFF Apprentice Match Program
Center for Arkansas Farms and Food (CAFF) matches farm apprentices to farms in the northwest Arkansas region based on the apprentice’s goals and interests. It is designed to provide experiential learning for the next generation of Arkansas farmers and to support farm development in the state. Scenic Northwest Arkansas, home of the University of Arkansas, is consistently rated one of the top areas to live in the U.S. CAFF is part of the University of Arkansas System, Division of Agriculture. More information on the CAFF apprentice program is available at UAFarmApprentice.org
EXPECTATIONS OF APPRENTICES
Apprentices will learn alongside an experienced farmer on a successful farm. Apprentices should expect to:
- Participate in all classroom sessions and group activities
- Work closely with, and as directed by, farm mentor(s)
- Write weekly journal or blog entries
- Be challenged physically, intellectually and emotionally
- Able to work long farm hours as needed
- Able to lift 50 lbs.
- Able to tolerate regular exposure to heat, sunlight, dust, pollen, ticks and chiggars.
- Have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license
The CAFF apprenticeship program lasts one to two seasons, depending on apprentice interests. The program includes a core set of classes with curriculum topics that complement the hands-on learning.
Farm Apprenticeships in Arkansas – CLASSES
Apprentices are required to attend twelve educational classes, nine of which are held in the winter prior to starting the on-farm experience. Classes take place at the Milo J. Shult Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Remote attendance options are available. Three additional classes are held during the growing season. These allow apprentices to share information and experiences. Classes are 2-3 hours each, and include foundational topics that provide the essential building blocks for on-farm learning.
ON-FARM EXPERIENCE
An agreement is signed between the farm mentor and apprentice outlining the terms of employment with important details. Each on-farm experience is different. Farm mentors determine details such as number of working hours per week, work responsibilities and any specific policies, including living arrangements if applicable. The exact on-farm start and end dates for each apprenticeship are based on needs of the mentor farmer. Start dates are typically in late winter.
APPRENTICESHIP PROVISIONS
On-farm provisions are based on the resources and determination of the mentor farm and therefore may vary widely from one farm to another. Work responsibilities, hours, time-off, housing, compensation and other details will be clearly communicated in a written agreement prior to the start of an on-farm experience.
Some optional provisions offered by the host farmer may or may not include:
- Rate of monthly stipend or hourly wage
- Living onsite and helping with household chores
- Sharing meals with the farmer’s family and participating in meal prep
See below for more information, program costs and how to apply.
PROGRAM COSTS AND OVERVIEW
Apprenticeship Fee: $285 / per calendar year
Program Duration: 10 months – 2 years, based on apprentice interests
Classroom Sessions: 12 in total (9 prior to placement, 3 in-season)
Farm Placement: Begins in late winter/early spring
Networking: With apprentices/farmers/organizations/businesses
Checks-ins: Periodically by CAFF staff
Certificate: Based on the number of on-farm hours completed
HOW TO APPLY FOR FARM APPRENTICESHIPS IN ARKANSAS THROUGH THE CAFF PROGRAM
Apply at UAfarmapprentice.org.
Applications should be submitted between Sept 1 – November 15.
If you require application accessibility assistance, or have questions, contact CAFF at: CAFF.uark.edu
If you’re interested in this program, please contact us and fill out the application.
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