This is a unique opportunity to be part of a permaculture farm at its beginning stages, as we enter our third growing season, and are only at the beginning of expansion. Our farm totals 100 acres with about 30 acres of young forest and 70 acres of meadow. Our plans for this season include:
– Growing our current 1.5 acre no-tillage vegetable garden to 3-5 acres
– Building a 7′ X 14′ passive solar heated greenhouse and small cold frames
– Establishing blackberry and raspberry patches
– Transplanting black currants, gooseberries, and possibly fruit trees
– Expanding our CSA foodbox program
– Setting up a stand at our roadside
– Selling to local restaurants, at farmers markets, foodbox programs, and distributors
– Planting windbreaks
– Constructing trellis structures
– Wild food/medicine harvesting
– Pruning and rehabilitating wild apple trees
Our methods of cultivation are rooted in natural farming and permaculture methods. As an apprentice you will learn and practice the following methods of bed preparation:
– No-tillage sheet mulching
– Hugelkultur mounds
– Ramial chipped branch wood
– Hay bale instant gardens
You will learn some season extension techniques: using floating row covers, cloches, a small greenhouse, and cold frames. Interns also have the opportunity to learn about eating seasonally, including food preservation and storage for the winter.
You will also learn polyculture/companion planting methods, organic pest control, biodynamic techniques (e.g., moon-phase planting, compost tea, tree paste), and the use and care of chicken tractors.
Accommodations:
Interns will stay in the main house for the season. The kitchen and pantry will be shared in the main house, as will clean-up duties. Much of the food supply will come straight from the land once crops start maturing. If desired, transportation can be provided for occasional trips to nearby towns (Omemee, Lindsay, Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, Peterborough, etc.)
What is expected of interns:
– Commitment to the full season, including signing a contract
– 40 hours per week of work on the farm
– Both self-directed and team work
– Ability to follow through on specific instructions
Qualifications:
– Preference will be given to those with previous farming/gardening experience but it is not a necessity
– Passion for sustainable farming is a must
– Physically fit with good endurance and tolerance for working outside in all weather conditions
– Dedicated hard worker who is able to work alone or as part of a team
– Able to carry out compound instructions with little to no supervision
– Willing to eat a predominantly vegan or vegetarian diet
– Someone who is alright to be around animals as we have dogs, cats, horses, and pigs
How to apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter (one page or less) explaining who you are, your relevant skills, and why you feel you’d like to take on this apprenticeship.
Email us at greenshireecofarms@gmail.com
