Farm Apprenticeship Program

Farm Apprenticeship Program

Williams Farm Apprenticeship

Located just one mile from downtown Athens, the Williams Farm is an oasis in the city where Athens Land Trust staff and community members work together to steward the land and provide educational opportunities. We grow a variety of produce and medicinal and culinary herbs for our weekly farmers markets, CSA program and for donations to local food banks and soup kitchens.

The Williams Farm is part of Athens Land Trust’s Community Agriculture Program, which is committed to neighborhood revitalization by developing a sustainable local food system in some of Athens’ most food insecure communities, strengthening the local economy and building unity and wellness at the community level.

The Williams Farm project has a three-part mission:

  • Grow and market affordable food products to the residents and businesses in the community, utilizing organic and sustainable production methods and generating self-sustaining income
  • Serve as a model for community members and local farmers to learn about the importance of sustainable farming, healthy diets and the value of smart and equitable land use
  • Provide employment and skill-building opportunities to underserved youth and low-income people, while contributing to the local economy

What we are looking for:

We are looking for two aspiring farmers who are passionate about making their community a better place by becoming a part of the local sustainable food movement. Applicants should have a willingness to learn, be hardworking, flexible and positive and possess an interest in natural production farming. Minimum age is 18.

The Work:

Through your apprenticeship at Williams Farm, you will learn about sustainable agricultural practices, gain hands-on experience on a small, Certified Naturally Grown farm and assist Athens Land Trust in furthering its sustainable agriculture programs. Farm work will include planting, harvesting, competition control, pest management, watering, pruning, compost management, amending, washing produce, assisting at farmers markets, working with volunteers, production planning, equipment maintenance and greenhouse work. You must be able to operate a variety of hand tools safely and perform physical activities, such as, but not limited to, lifting heavy items (up to 50 lbs. unassisted), bending, standing, climbing or walking. You must be able to work in all types of weather conditions.

This position runs from March 2016 – November 2016. Hours and weekly schedules can be flexible according to your schedule and the needs of the farm. You are expected to work 10-20 hours a week and must be able to work through the summer with regular hours.

Compensation:

You will receive a box of farm produce every week. You will also receive extensive educational opportunities, real world experience and the satisfaction of greatly contributing to your local community!

If you are interested applying for this position email Stephanie Simmons, Stephanie@athenslandtrust.org, and include a brief bio and why you think you would be a great candidate for this position.