Join Farm Apprentice Program in California

• Language Spoken
  English
• Accomodation Provided
  Yes
• Meals Included
  Dinner
• Amenities
  Wifi, Kitchen
• Types of Help & Learning Opportunities
  Building & Repairing, Farm Help, Gardening & Planting, Event Help & Guest Entertainment, Spiritual Growth

About Oz Farm:

Oz Farm, nestled in a secluded valley on the scenic Mendocino County coast, spans 240 acres and is situated on the traditional land of the Pomo People. Located approximately 130 miles north of San Francisco, the farm is bordered by redwood forests and traversed by the Garcia River, offering a tranquil environment with fresh air and clear water. The farm operates off-the-grid, relying on solar and wind power for all its activities, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living. Accessible via Mountain View Road in Point Arena, California, Oz Farm supports organic agriculture and eco-friendly practices, contributing to a peaceful and sustainable community.

Since its establishment in 1990, Oz Farm has been dedicated to producing certified organic apples, pears, and a variety of vegetables, adhering to strict organic farming principles. Additionally, the farm serves as a venue for a variety of retreats and workshops, including Yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, cooking, and artist sessions, fostering a community spirit focused on wellness and education. The scenic venue also hosts family reunions, weddings, and other celebrations, offering rustic facilities amidst its natural beauty. Beyond agricultural activities, the farm is managed as a sustainable working forest, inviting visitors to relish the serenity and unique ecosystem of the redwood forests and river walks.

About the Farm Apprentice Program in California:

Oz Farm offers a comprehensive volunteer apprenticeship program focusing on sustainable agriculture and organic farming. Located on the Garcia River in Mendocino County, California, Oz Farm provides a unique hands-on education in small-scale organic farming practices, communal living, and off-grid lifestyle. The apprenticeship spans from April to November, offering participants the chance to develop core agricultural skills, gain practical experience in farm management, and immerse themselves in a supportive community environment dedicated to ecological resilience and intentional living.

### Volunteer Opportunities Duties and Benefits

#### Volunteer Roles Available:
– Apprentice in small-scale organic agriculture.

#### Duties and Responsibilities:
– Field and soil preparation.
– Propagation and transplanting.
– Crop care and pest management.
– Harvesting and marketing.
– Additional roles in irrigation, orchard care, carpentry, tool use, recordkeeping, and team leadership.

#### Types of Projects or Activities:
– Weekly classes on agricultural topics (soil chemistry, crop planning, botany, etc.).
– Field workshops and community discussions.
– Participation in off-grid living and intentional community projects.
– Potential for additional paid hourly work at the Retreat Center.

### Benefits for Volunteers:
– Room and board including a private cabin with amenities and communal kitchen access.
– Cash take from farmers market sales.
– Weekly family-style plant-based dinners.
– In-depth training in diversified vegetable production and marketing.
– Development of valuable skills in both agriculture and community living.

#### Skills and Experiences Gained:
– Practical agricultural skills: soil preparation, crop management, harvesting, and marketing.
– Community and team leadership skills.
– Knowledge of sustainable and regenerative farming techniques.
– Off-grid living and communal living experience.

#### Unique Opportunities:
– Pursuit of passion projects on the farm.
– Cultural immersion in intentional community living.
– Educational field trips and hands-on workshops.

#### Length of Stay:
– Tentative dates: April 21st – November 1st (one season).

Volunteers are selected based on their commitment, responsibility, and passion for sustainable agriculture and community living.

Contact Details

Exchange Type

• Home for Time

Regions

• United States

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