Internships?

wanttolearn · #1 10/01/10, 01:55 PM

For several years, I have been reading articles and things about self sufficient farming. I've had it in my mind that "someday" i would do this. But I've come to realize that reading will only take you so far. At some point you must do.

To that end, I'm looking for a place where in exchange for room and board I can learn the day to day of running a farm, and find out if this is really the sort of life I can live. I've looked around, and without paying I don't seem to be able to find a good resource for finding something.

So I'm looking for a site or if you happen to know someone who is looking, it would be great if you could give me a link. I'm in California, but I'm not limiting myself as to location.

ErinP · #2 10/01/10, 02:19 PM

Look in the ag. papers for a farm hand job. (and just start doing a Google search for those. Midwest Messenger (and its sister publications. Click "Ag Sites" at the right side of the menu bar at the top), High Plains Journal, and the Fence Post are all a good place to start)
There are always a few who will take people who no experience but a "good work ethic."

What this really means though is that once you HAVE some experience you'll realize this person is pretty hard to work for. And there's a reason they don't demand experience from their help.

However, rough as it might be, it'll pay your bills, usually come with free housing and you will learn the basics.

wanttolearn · #3 10/01/10, 10:34 PM

Thank for the links. I'm going to keep looking.

CrashTestRanch · #4 10/01/10, 10:48 PM

http://www.wwoofusa.org/

luvrulz · #5 10/02/10, 07:29 AM

http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/internships/

Check here too!

wanttolearn · #6 10/03/10, 03:51 PM

I have been checking attra, had a couple of leads.

wwoof is unfortunately a pay site.

thanks again.

Pigeon Lady · #7 10/03/10, 05:05 PM

An organic farm in sw Virginia is taking applications for an apprentice. They do this every year. You live in a tiny log house and learn all the ins and outs of running the farm. Past apprentices have posted reviews of their experience, and all seem to have had a great time and learned a lot. I think you get a small wage of about $100 a month.

http://www.7springsfarm.com/apprentice.html

Pauline

**highlands** · #8 10/03/10, 06:42 PM

Be aware that the IRS is now looking at internships as paid positions, even if there is no pay, and demanding wage tax, Social Security tax, unemployment tax, etc.