Farm Internship in South Dakota

The Good Earth Farm, located near Lennox, South Dakota is offering an internship for the 2014 season. The farmstead is 140 years old and consists of 25 acres of pastures, creek, gardens, and groves. The property features a homestead built in 1893 and a beautiful stone foundation barn that’s over 100 years old. The Good Earth is CSA farm and serves approximately 500 families, mostly in the Sioux Falls area. They farm about 15 acres of chemical-free veggies and have numerous animals, including dogs, cats, a miniature cow and horse, goats, chickens,and turkeys. More information can be found at www.thegoodearth.us The farm is seeking applicants for an internship/apprenticeship program. These positions will be expected to work side-by-side with the farms owners approximately 60 hours per week. This is a physically demanding job. Work continues rain or shine. Daytime temperatures can range from 50 to 105 degrees. Daily responsibilities will include preparing the fields (tillage, raised beds, trellising, irrigation, etc.), seeding, transplanting, watering, weeding, pest control, picking, washing, packing, etc. You will also help out with other tasks as needed: lawn mowing, animal care, help at the stand,etc. The growing season lasts from mid-May to early October.

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What’s in it for you?: The apprenticeship is designed for individuals interested in finding out first-hand if running your own farm is right for you. It will teach you everything you need to know about running a successful CSA beginning in the greenhouse and ending in a pumpkin patch in the fall. You will learn via a hands-on approach everything there is to know about growing fruits and vegetables without chemicals. You will also learn vital sales and marketing skills, proper field planning, shareholder planning, customer relations, and get a clear insight into the financials of a small farm. The apprenticeship includes a $1500 monthly stipend as well as free room and board. A vehicle is available as well if you do not have one.

Please apply by sending an email to jeff.kirstein@thegoodearth.us. Include your contact information, a brief relevant work history (no experience needed), and a paragraph explaining why you are interested in this opportunity. The Good Earth will set up a time to talk via phone or Skpe.