At the Kroka Farm, garden apprentices have a unique opportunity to learn about farming and work alongside students of all ages and backgrounds while living in a robust intentional community of exceptional people that are committed to living simply and lightly on the earth.
The heart of the farm work is twofold: to provide an opportunity for students to develop relationships with plants, animals, the food they give us, and our sustainable future together, and produce a variety of vegetables, fruits, and animal products year round to contribute to feeding the 1,000+ students and staff who join Kroka’s programs annually.
Our organic farm comprises 10 acres of pasture, 2 greenhouses, expanding vegetable production, and plots of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, as well as a smattering of fruit trees amidst a beautiful 100-acre campus. Our current livestock includes cows, goats, and laying hens.
Garden Apprentice will support the Gardener in all aspects of organic vegetable and fruit production and processing and in engaging summer camp students ages 9-14 in farm-based programs. Prior farming experience is much appreciated but not necessary, though a strong interest in both agriculture and community is essential.
Responsibilities
- Seed starting and hardening transplants for field and high tunnel growing
- Direct seeding and transplanting in high tunnels and field plots
- Preparing beds and amending soil
- Irrigation system oversight
- Harvesting, washing, storing and processing of vegetables
- Compost building
- Perennial fruit production, maintenance and harvesting
- Supporting students in farm-based education and farm to table cooking and food preservation
- Maintaining farm equipment and barn spaces
Schedule
- Seasonal, Full Time position from June – August
- Our typical daily schedule is 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM, with hour-long breaks for breakfast and lunch
Qualifications & Experience
- Basic understanding of organic food systems and appreciation of sustainable growing practices
- Strong desire to learn organic vegetable production practices
- Strong work ethic; ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to work outside in all weather conditions and to lift and carry at least 50 pounds
- Commitment to ecologically conscious living and simplified personal needs. Experience living and working in community
- A willingness to work with students ages 9 – 19 and staff in farm education
- Prior experience on a working or educational farm is a big plus
Live in community
- Share a canvas wall tent set amidst staff village
- Develop personal living habits in harmony with natural world
- Have opportunities to participate in paddling, climbing, hiking and other adventure and wilderness skills training with Kroka guides
Compensation
- Stipend of $250 – $450 per week; depending on experience
- Training and mentoring in organic growing skills
- Room and board; simple and beautiful Kroka Village shared housing and homemade meals of farm and other local produce and meats
- Opportunities to join staff for off day local adventure sport outings
- Being part of a forward thinking and energetic community that is deeply engaged in making a positive difference in the world
Season: June – August
