Blue Mountain Farm, is a certified farm located in the foothills of Northern California’s Sierra Nevada. A large assortment of mostly heirloom fruit, vegetable, and culinary/medical herbs are grown along with raising honeybees and chickens. Various permaculture practices are used in addition to some use of tractor and various implements in specific garden areas.
We are now seeking 2 Farm Interns. Ideal candidates will have integrity, great attention to detail, problem solving skills, physical stamina and strength. Internships are available ONLY from mid April through October for a minimum of 1-2 months up to the maximum of 7.5 months. Only 2 internships available at a time, and preference is given to interns who can commit to the whole market season.
We offer a weekly stipend of $200 to each intern, housing in RV or cottage, some food staples, and vegetables and eggs from the farm.
Position Requirements:
-Must work well independently and with others
-One season previous farm experience preferred but not necessary
-Have passion for life and the work they do
-Excellent work ethic
-Have a valid drivers license
-Have good communication skills
-Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
-Be in good physical shape with ability to bend, lift, and kneel frequently
-Due to location of farm, having a personal vehicle is usually necessary
- Willingness to fully commit to the farm for the season or agreed upon time frame
The farm is in a rural area near the edge of BLM and National Forest land. There are lots opportunities for hiking, swimming, fishing, and skiing. The farm has two sites off the same road. One site completely off grid at the top of the canyon with mixed forest and panoramic views of volcanic lava caps nestled in front of the Mountain. The 2nd farm site is in the lower part of the canyon has more shade, and lays between two creeks. Can usually swim in the larger creek between June and July. The creek is adjacent to the garden with big old oaks at it’s edge. It is about 30min -1hour drive to the various surrounding towns. The closest town, Murphys, is about 30 minutes drive and has lots of wineries, restaurants, and shops.
Interns will take part in all farm operations, including seeding, transplanting, weeding, mulching, greenhouse production, field preparation, cultivation, careful efficient harvesting for maximum crop quality, seed saving, pruning the orchard, washing and packing, distribution of produce, and interaction with customers at market.
Additionally, interns will have the opportunity to learn about the workings of a small farm, operation and functions of tractor implements, and gain a greater understanding of soil fertility, composting, crop rotation, cover cropping, companion planting, beekeeping, fungi culture, viticulture, orchard care, plant immunity, irrigation, natural disease and insect control.
One can expect 20-40 hours a week during late fall, 20-40 hours in early spring, and 40 hours a week during the rest of the year. Work on the farm during the warm season is about 6 hours a day 5-6 days week. Usually about 3 hours in the morning and 3 hours in the afternoon or late afternoon. Breaks usually sometime between 11-3 for 2-4 hours depending on work to accomplish each day. Market day is an 8 hour plus day that rotates between famers and interns each week.
To apply send an email to info@bluemntfarm.com that includes a resume with details about yourself, work experience, education, and any relevant training or skills applicable to the position. Include a minimum of 3 work and/or academic references.