Good Rain Farm

Good Rain Farm

• 2 APPRENTICESHIPS

• PART TIME (24 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: May - October

• $18/HR

• LOCATION: Troutdale  (Portland Metro Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 9

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING:  New Host Farm

• PRACTICES: Low-Till, Organic Practices (Not Certified)

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 1

• Vegetables, Culinary Herbs, Meat Production, Seed Production

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No 

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English

• BIPOC Owned/Operated, Women Owned/Operated

Good Rain Farm is a diverse operation focused on vegetable production, native plant propagation, and Indigenous First Foods. We primarily grow mixed vegetables and Indigenous crops, cultivating them through sustainable practices such as low-till methods, cover cropping, and regenerative soil care. Our marketing and sales outlets include a CSA program, local farmers markets, and direct-to-community sales. Our CSA, Save Our Seed, prioritizing culturally relevant foods and education. 

Training future farmers is essential to sustaining our food systems, and it’s critical to build a qualified, skilled workforce that values sustainable, culturally rooted practices. Mentoring Apprentices aligns with our mission to strengthen the community through hands-on education and cultural stewardship, helping to ensure a resilient, knowledgeable, and inclusive agricultural future. 

www.GoodRainFarm.com

@goodrainfarm

FARM OVERVIEW

Good Rain Farm is located on 13.5 acres within the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) and designated rural agricultural reserves, just 10 minutes from Gresham and Troutdale, Oregon. The farm includes 10 open-field acres dedicated to mixed vegetable production, providing a spacious and productive setting for diverse crops. Our proximity to the Sandy and Columbia Rivers adds to the richness of the environment, offering opportunities for recreational activities and connection to local natural resources. The setting provides both a quiet, rural atmosphere and convenient access to nearby communities, making it ideal for sustainable farming and community engagement. Currently farm owner Michelle Week and partner live on site with 1 dog, several cats, and meat rabbits. 

Our production is a blend of mechanization and hand labor, using tools like a BCS walk-behind tractor for efficiency while maintaining soil health. We use cover crops to enrich soil and support biodiversity, and we are committed to organic practices, exploring organic certification to enhance transparency. 

Our typical farm crew includes Michelle and seasonal Apprentices who engage in all aspects of the farm’s operations. We prioritize training Apprentices in sustainable methods, food sovereignty, and cultural revitalization, aiming to foster skilled farmers who carry forward these values. Community volunteers also join us seasonally, helping with planting, harvesting, and community events that support our broader mission of sustainable, inclusive agriculture. 

Farmer Michelle Week, founder and steward of Good Rain Farm, is a first-generation farmer from the sngaytskstx (Sinixt) Arrow Lakes Peoples. With a foundation in outdoor recreation and gardening, she refined her skills through a Farm Apprenticeship at Zenger Farm, which led her to establish Good Rain Farm to increase access to Indigenous First Foods. 

Michelle’s philosophy centers on food sovereignty, cultural revitalization, and environmental stewardship. Good Rain Farm was established in 2018 to blend traditional knowledge with sustainable farming, fostering ecological health and community resilience. Michelle’s goals include creating an inclusive food system, expanding education, and training future farmers who prioritize community and sustainability. 

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

Apprentices at Good Rain Farm will engage in a variety of tasks throughout the six-month Apprenticeship, including field work such as planting, cultivating, weeding, and harvesting, as well as care for livestock, including feeding and cleaning of our meat rabbits. Training will include 48 hours of classroom instruction (typically offered in 3hr weekly chunks) covering essential topics like crop planning, irrigation, seed saving, and soil fertility. Apprentices will also learn practical skills in washing and packing produce, basic marketing principles through CSA interactions, and safe equipment use and maintenance. Additionally, they will contribute to social media marketing and newsletter writing, enhancing their communication skills and understanding of farm promotion. While the focus is more on agricultural skills than business operations, Apprentices will receive a list of resources and recommendations for additional entrepreneurial education, and time to attend workshops can be accommodated. The program aims to provide a well-rounded experience, fostering both hands-on agricultural skills and an understanding of sustainable farming practices while encouraging collaboration and active participation. 

Apprentices at Good Rain Farm are expected to commit to three eight-hour training days per week, starting around 7-8 AM and ending around 3-4 PM, with appropriate breaks included. Farm activities are predominantly performed outdoors in various weather conditions, so employees must dress appropriately each day and wear closed-toed shoes. The role involves significant physical exertion, requiring frequent bending, lifting, and handling of heavy equipment and supplies, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly throughout the day and stand for extended periods outdoors especially during soil amendment & cover cropping days. Reasonable accommodation may be provided upon request to support apprentices in meeting these physical demands. 

To provide effective instruction and mentorship to an Apprentice, Michelle will use a hands-on approach that combines lecture, demonstration, collaboration, and open communication. Michelle will teach core concepts and skills through practical work, engaging the Apprentice in daily tasks while guiding them with clear explanations. Regular field walks will facilitate discussions about observations and questions, enhancing their understanding. Michelle will schedule regular check-ins to assess progress and address challenges, fostering an environment where the Apprentice feels safe to share concerns. Michelle aims to provide consistent positive reinforcement alongside constructive criticism, balancing firmness with gentleness. While the work is urgent, Michelle emphasizes that growth and learning are ongoing processes. Evaluation sessions will reflect on progress and set goals, ensuring the Apprentice gains confidence and independence as they develop their skills. 

QUALIFICATIONS

We are seeking applicants with a minimum of one year of outdoor field worker or farm experience that includes direct involvement in farm operations, with a focus on supporting and executing activities directed by the Lead Instructor or Farm Managers. Ideal candidates should have a working knowledge of organic, sustainable, small farm practices and a passion for learning about Native First Foods, alongside a commitment to land stewardship. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, competency with mathematics, and the ability to follow verbal instructions are essential. Additionally, applicants should be comfortable within a community-driven management process and demonstrate a strong work ethic, enthusiasm for lifelong learning, and an open mind. A food handler's card is preferred but not required. 

COMPENSATION / ACCOMMODATIONS

For our Apprenticeship position(s), we offer $18 per hour for three 8-hour workdays weekly, plus several benefits to enrich the experience. Apprentices receive a seasonal CSA box, Paid Time Off, Paid Sick Days, and a Gear Stipend to ensure they’re well-supported. We maintain a Hydration Station and snack basket (“snasket”), provide occasional hot lunches, and offer access to a network of educational and farming opportunities. Technical support for scholarships, grants, and other resources is available, along with comprehensive on-the-job training that emphasizes both practical farming skills and Indigenous approaches to agriculture. Together, these benefits create a holistic, supportive environment for Apprentices to thrive and prepare for futures in sustainable agriculture. 

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

At Good Rain Farm, equity and inclusion mean fostering a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment for all, particularly BIPOC and Queer individuals. Our Apprenticeship offers specialized training from an Indigenous-led perspective, promoting diversity and skill-building. We ensure accessibility with 50% of CSA memberships offered at reduced or no cost and by providing home delivery for those in need. Through culturally relevant programs like our Save Our Seed CSA, which teaches seed saving and sustainable agriculture, we advance food sovereignty and social justice. Our commitment to fair treatment, accessibility, and cultural reclamation reflects our belief that equitable food access and environmental stewardship are essential for a just community. 

Michelle Week (Photo Credit: Jaimie Thrower)

Bel Avenir Farm

Bel Avenir Farm

• 1 APPRENTICESHIP

• PART TIME (15 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: March/April - November

• $15/HR first three weeks (trial period), $18/HR

• LOCATION: Ashland (Rogue Valley Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 12

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING: New Host Farm

• PRACTICES: Organic Practices (Not Certified), No-Till, Rotational Grazing

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 5

• Meat Production, Poultry (Eggs), Value-added/Processing, Agritourism

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English (Fluent)

• Women-Owned/Operated

Bel Avenir (which means bright or beautiful future) is a 5-acre farm located in rural Ashland, on the ancestral lands of the Shasta, Takelma, and Latgawa peoples. Diane Choplin launched the farm in 2012 and firmly believes in serving the land as a responsible steward while building soil, producing nutrient-dense food, and maintaining high standards for animal welfare. Bel Avenir supplies direct-to-consumer rotationally-grazed lamb and pastured eggs, as well as value-added products. Dedicated to regenerative practices and the highest standard of animal welfare, Bel Avenir is Bee Friendly Certified, and a Jackson Soil and Water Conservation Stewardship Site. 

https://www.facebook.com/BelAvenirFarm/ 

@belavenirfarm 

Farm Overview

Bel Avenir is a no-till, 5-acre labor of love located just outside the town of Ashland, on the ancestral lands of the Shasta, Takelma, and Latgawa peoples. Myer Creek bisects the property. There’s a raised-bed kitchen garden, pond, fruit + nut orchard, and over three acres of perennial pasture which is home to a small herd of hair sheep, flock of laying hens, and a plethora of insects, soil microbes, and burrowing rodents. My 15yo son and I live in the farmhouse. For added income, I Airbnb the largest bedroom. 

Bel Avenir has historically been a one-woman show with very occasional hired help for tasks I can’t do alone or as efficiently. I raise rotationally grazed lamb and pastured eggs that I sell directly to clients. Meat is whole-animal to enable farm kill and encourage nose-to-tail consumption. Clients come to me by word of mouth. Additionally, I make value-added products from hides and orchard fruit that I sell to Airbnb guests and also by word of mouth. 

Though not certified organic, I hold to those standards, controlling weeds through mechanical means (hand pulling/digging/burning) and with grazing, tarping, and sheet mulch. I’m also an experienced boot-strapper, as any single person running a farm must be, having received multiple grants and one corporate sponsorship for infrastructure projects.

Farming is an exciting, challenging, and rewarding learning curve, especially having come from an urban existence! I’m grateful for all of the opportunities this valley and its supportive farming community offers to beginners. I’ve taken full advantage since beginning my journey in 2009 with workshops at OSU Extension, Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District, and online. I enjoy giving back to those programs and have hosted over 350 folks for tours and workshops on the subjects of noxious weed management, riparian restoration, rotational grazing, and economics and enterprise. 

I’m a member of the League of Women Farmers and the Oregon Forages and Grasslands Council. I also work part-time for OSU Extension (SOREC), Small Farms, and serve on the board of Our Family Farms, the organization behind the campaign to ban GMO crops from Jackson County.

For a deep dive into my farming philosophy and values: https://www.dianechoplin.com/writing

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

Lambing kicks off in spring (late March), which means ear tagging, cord dipping, potential lamb pulling, and health checks. At a month old, I band male lambs as means of castration. Rotational grazing season begins once all the lambs are on the ground and able to reliably find and follow their mamas. It runs through October/November, when forage growth slows and the flock is separated for breeding and slaughter. Rotational season means constant forage assessment and taking down/setting up of paddocks (weed whacking fence lines, moving electrified nets, etc.). I do FAMACHA scoring, hoof-trimming, and conduct my own fecal egg counts (collect poo, put it in solution, and look at it under a microscope). Other activities include collecting and delivering eggs, night penning animals, cleaning their coop/sleeping spaces, reducing fuels for fire resilience, and LOTS of weed management. Apprentices will learn to identify forages and weeds (including noxious, beneficial, and toxic), how and when to control them, and how to measure and maintain pasture density. 

All work is physical to varying degrees. There will be digging, weed whacking, bending, lifting, mowing, and working low to the ground. Hay bales are the heaviest item, at 60 pounds, but it’s rare that they need moving, at least not until rotating season ends in late fall. Well, sheep are heavier but we won’t pick them up. We’ll just move them around at hoof trimming. 

For 7-10 hours a week, I will work alongside you to teach skills and talk concepts as we work. I envision the experience as hands-on learning. We’ll also check in for the first and last 5-10 minutes of each workday. Questions are always welcome. Our first day will include a tour, a discussion of what the Apprentice is most interested to learn, deciding our schedule, and meeting the animals. We’ll have two evaluation sessions as per RFC guidelines, more if the Apprentice desires. Attending an irrigation district meeting is a possibility, as is assisting with any workshops, or selecting a personal project. 

I’m also happy for Apprentices to participate in and learn from my Airbnb farm stay and potentially take on a project of their choice on the farm. 

Schedule: No more than five hours of work per day, M-F, with possibility of some weekend hours as needed, for fifteen total hours per week. Regular schedule desired. Flexibility for days off, extreme heat, and poor AQI. Punctuality, clear communication, and advanced notice of vacation plans are expected.

QUALIFICATIONS

Reliability, good physical fitness, and a sincere desire to learn are paramount. Good communication (as mentioned above), listening skills, and accountability are also important. I’d rather someone admit they forgot how to do something and ask for help, than forge ahead, too embarrassed to ask, and cause harm to themselves or others, or make more work later. Please be detail oriented and have a strong work ethic. Be someone who wants to do their best in everything, versus get away with minimum required effort. Previous outdoor and/or physical work experience is a plus as it means you know how to take care of yourself in summer heat, deadlift properly, etc. Committed to agriculture, farming, and/or homesteading is another plus, but not required. 

I would prefer that the prospective apprentice visit in person to make sure it’s a good fit for all. In absence of that, a Zoom call would be necessary.

COMPENSATION / ACCOMMODATIONS 

$15/hr for an initial trial period of three weeks.

$18/hr after successful trial period, plus farm-produced eggs and seasonal produce, when available. 

$250 completion-of-season bonus. 

The rental market in and around Ashland is tight and expensive, but the farm is just 2 minutes off of I-5, so commuting from Talent, Phoenix, Jacksonville, or Medford would be easy (10-20 minute drive). Look for housing through Craigslist, rental property management companies, and social media. If I learn of someone looking for a roommate or renter, I’m happy to share that information. As of the writing of this description, I know of no such opportunities. 

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

I make efforts to educate myself to the experiences of others so that I may be more mindful in my interactions and aware of the inequitable privileges accorded me, as well as subconscious actions I may take or have taken that reinforce division and oppression. I invite feedback and work cooperatively to address concerns. I recognize I have much to learn and actively seek out opportunities to do so. I read a lot of nonfiction, personal essays, memoirs, and biographies by BIPOC authors, attend DEI trainings and LGBTQIA events, and speak up when I see injustice and insensitivity. I advocate for greater BIPOC representation in my off-farm work and strive to avoid tokenism. I respect and honor people’s pronouns and lifestyle choices. I greet everyone warmly and pay attention to nonverbal cues regarding their comfort and safety. I am open to suggestions on how I can do better. My farm, unfortunately, is not ADA-compliant. 

Diane Choplin with Sheep

Runnymede Farm

Runnymede Farm

• 1 APPRENTICESHIP

• PART TIME/FULL TIME (24-40 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: March/April - November

• $15/HR

• LOCATION: Rogue River (Rogue Valley Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 25

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING: 5

• PRACTICES: Organic Practices (Not Certified), Mechanized/Tractor Farming, Winter Farming

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 9

• Diversified Vegetable, Fruit, Dairy, Poultry (Eggs), Cut Flowers, Nursery Stock, Value-Added / Processing

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English

• Women-Owned/Operated, Veteran-Owned/Operated

Runnymede Farm is well known for our fresh produce and nursery business in the local Rogue River community.  We strive to provide the Rogue Valley with high quality, local food while being good stewards to our land.  The farm uses intuition and intensive, chemical-free, non-certified organic practices to produce a wide variety of crops on their 10 acres, including vegetables, fruit, cut flowers, nursery plants, eggs, and dairy.

@runnymede.farm

FARM OVERVIEW

Runnymede farm is located in the beautiful Evans Valley of Southern Oregon, just 2 miles outside the town of Rogue River, a 10 minute drive to Grants Pass and a 20 minute drive to Medford. The 10 acres comprises 5 acres of pasture, 1 acre of wooded forest, 3 acres of hoop houses, nursery space, and growing fields, and 1 acre of living quarters. Teri and Arthur White, the farm’s owners, live on the farm with their dog Leche and the other farm animals. The Rogue Valley is a beautiful place at all times of the year, with plenty of hiking, river floats, and nature to explore.

Runnymede grows row crops and flowers in our fields and hoop houses.  We also have a small orchard of pear trees and blackberries, as well as a nursery with annual and perennial flowers, vegetable starts, fruit trees, bushes, and ornamental bushes and trees. 

Each year, Runnymede raises a new round of chicks for egg production.  There are about 15 goats bred for raw goat milk, and two calves to help maintain the pasture.  

Produce, eggs, nursery starts, and plants sell at 3 local farmer’s markets (Ashland, Medford and Grants Pass), as well as selling produce for a few other local farms. We do a 5 week CSA in the winter months. We also do on farm sales of our raw milk, eggs, and nursery stock.  

Due to the scale and intensity of the plantings, field prep is done with a tractor, while all other tasks are performed by hand with basic tools.  The farm employs 2 full-time employees, 1 part-time employee, and hires additional seasonal help as it’s needed.

The farm is operated by husband and wife team, Arthur and Teri. Together, they have over 25 years of farming and marketing experience. They have been on the farm since 1999. 

Nora Kendall is the primary mentor for the RFC Apprentice and was once herself a RFC Apprentice! Nora started working at Runnymede in 2021, and once completed with the RFC program, was hired on full time at the farm. She is now the field manager, organizes the daily on-farm operations, as well as works 2 of the 3 markets. Nora enjoys the diversity farming brings to each day, and appreciates being able to spend the days on her feet being active.  She is in the beginning years of starting her own farm, and loves educating others about farming and the importance of local food.  Nora also lives in Rogue River with her husband and looks forward to growing her own farm business in the years to come.

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

Apprentices joining the crew at Runnymede can expect to be exposed to all tasks involved in operating a small-scale, diverse, mixed production farm. Those tasks will include animal husbandry (including milking and milk handling) and planting, cultivation, harvesting, packing, and farmers market sales of produce, fruit, and nursery products. Additionally, there are a variety of farm-related construction projects here available for Apprentices to participate in if they are interested. We are looking for a market employee to operate our Saturday market booth in Grants Pass, a great opportunity if the right Apprentice is open to it! 

On-farm training time consists of between 24-40 hours/week for an Apprenticeship position, depending on the applicant, and will include some weekends and holidays. Training will be offered as RFC participants work alongside the host farmers and employees. They will work alongside the host farmers and employees, with some independent work as well, especially as the season progresses. The farm has many facets, and apprentices are welcome to gravitate toward the areas that interest them. Apprentices are given more leeway whenever possible in choosing their work than farm employees. Apprentices joining the crew at Runnymede can expect to be exposed to all tasks involved in operating a small-scale, diverse, mixed-production farm. 

The Apprentice will have tasks demonstrated to them clearly and thoroughly.  We require applicants come with no prior bias, and we may explain tasks that they have previous experience with to ensure it is done the way we like it. We are not providing instruction in biology, botany, or zoology. We are providing on the job experience from which apprentices will have to use their own initiative to further or codify their education.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants seeking employment at Runnymede Farm must be mature, serious in their pursuit of farming, and physically capable of lifting heavy objects and being active and on their feet for long days. They must be capable of working independently without constant supervision. A positive attitude that brings a calm presence amongst the employees and animals is a must.

We encourage Apprentices to explore and enjoy Southern Oregon’s beauty, its proximity to the coast, the redwoods, the cascades, and the desert. We encourage Apprentices to make friends in the wider Rogue Farm Corps community and share experiences to fully understand that farming, like life, has many paths.

We prefer an applicant who can stay from March - November but can be flexible on start and end dates as needed. We prefer an applicant to visit in person before a placement decision is made. If you will hire on without an on farm visit, we will have an interview,  perhaps multiple interviews. 

COMPENSATION / ACCOMMODATIONS

Apprentices will start at $15/hr.

We do not provide On-Farm Housing.  Housing can be tight, but rentals are available in the area. Non-local applicants are encouraged to come early to get settled. We can provide a reference for employment and character for housing applications. 

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Our farm encourages and supports applicants from all backgrounds and is committed to creating a safe and supportive work environment. Runnymede is happy to share our knowledge of farming with anyone with an open mind towards learning and the world around them.  

One of the foundations of nature is variety, and as such, Runnymede Farm also welcomes all souls committed to tolerance, non-violence, and ethical and moral human values.

PAST APPRENTICE TESTIMONIALS

“[Arthur and Teri provided] a clear schedule and list of tasks. [They hosted] a welcoming environment and awesome coworkers… open to ideas and feedback from employees.” - 2021

Teri and Art White (Photo: David Hampton Photography)

Farm Mentor Nora Dennehy with one of the Goats at Runnymede

Winter Green Farm

WINTER GREEN FARM

• 2 APPRENTICESHIPS

• FULL TIME (40 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: March - November

• $15.25/HR

• LOCATION:  Noti (WIllamette Valley Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 44 years

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING:  1

• PRACTICES:  Biodynamic, Certified Organic, Mechanized/Tractor Farming

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 25 

• Vegetables, Fruit, Culinary Herbs, Meat Production, Hay Production

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No 

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English, Spanish 

• Women-Owned/Operated

Mission Statement:

A productive farm in harmony with the earth, humanity, and ourselves.

www.wintergreenfarm.com

FARM OVERVIEW

Winter Green Farm is owned and operated by Chris and Shannon. Our farm is nestled in the foothills of the coast range about 25 miles from Eugene and 40 miles from the Oregon coast. The farm is about 100 acres, and we lease 34 acres down the road as well. The closest town that offers basic amenities is Veneta which is five miles away. 

Our farm enterprises include a CSA (500 members), 3 farmers markets a week, direct wholesale to stores and restaurants, plus wholesaling to schools, Organically Grown Company and a small grass-fed lamb operation. We grow 22-25 acres of mixed fruits and vegetables a year that are certified organic by Oregon Tilth. We also use biodynamic farming methods. We practice a six year rotation where our ground is mixed vegetables and forage production for our animals for three years, and then a beef herd managed by neighbors is on the farm for 3 years. We make all of our own compost on-farm which is our main source of fertility. We have an average of 20-25 people on payroll during the year. 

Apprentices would work closely with harvest managers as the primary mentors, rather than the farm owners. We grow a variety of fresh market vegetables and most are hand harvested, although we do have specialized mechanical harvesting equipment. Most of our tillage and cultivation is mechanized and done with tractors. 

Winter Green Farm was founded in 1980, has been certified organic since 1984, has had a CSA since 1992. Chris came to the farm in 1995 with no agricultural experience, a degree in biology and a commitment to help make the world a better place. His initial role on the farm was to help process medicinal herbs. He then went on to become the irrigation person. As his passion grew and knowledge base broadened, he was given more and more responsibility on the farm. In 2008 He and Shannon were given the opportunity by the other owners to partner in the farm and in 2015 they purchased all of the assets and secured a long term lease to run the vegetable operation on the farm.

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

We are looking to teach people production agriculture. They will take part in planting, harvesting, and processing of fruits and vegetables. Depending on experience and aptitude they may also get to take part in tractor work and other equipment operation. Depending on experience and desire to learn, Apprentices will be exposed to record keeping, fertility management and food safety protocol.

Apprentices will be given all the training they need for tasks that they are asked to do. Ideally they would work on average 40 hours a Monday through Friday. If someone is interested in doing farmers markets, their schedule would be adapted so they would work on Saturdays and still average 40 hours/week. 

Farming is hard work. An Apprentice should be able to work hard at an efficient pace during all types of weather. Time off is honored if scheduled in advance (unless for urgent needs). Apprentices will get paid sick time as well. We provide instruction by explaining, showing and working with the skill being instructed on. The people learning the task are given goals and techniques that we have worked on over the years to make the job more efficient , safe and less taxing on the body and mind. They will be given the chance to ask questions and work on their own after hands-on instruction is given. We follow up a couple of times after the training to make sure that the skill has been acquired and that the person is reaching their fullest potential at that skill.demonstration, gaining independence, offering time for questions or field walks, regular check-ins/meetings, evaluation sessions, etc.):

QUALIFICATIONS

People with previous farm experience would be ideal but not necessary. We appreciate: outdoor work experience, a commitment to organic agriculture, attention to detail, good communication and listening skills. Will need a car.

 It would be nice but not necessary to meet in person beforehand.

COMPENSATION / ACCOMMODATIONS

We start all crew workers at $15.25 an hour. Workers are given a 50 cent raise after 250 hours of employment and then raises are given based on hours accrued after that on July 1st and January 1st. Bonuses are given at the end of the year if the farm is profitable. 

Every employee is given paid sick leave (up to 40 hours a year) and if necessary can get paid family leave as well.

Apprentices will receive a 1⁄2 share of our CSA and are able to access other farm produce as well.

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

We believe that workers have the right to meaningful work, fair treatment, and decent compensation. We are eternally grateful for the love and care that our employees invest in our farm. In a very real way our farm is the manifestation of the energy of our workers. Many deep relationships have developed over the years at the farm, among workers and between workers and owners. We see our workforce as our farm community and look forward to supporting this important aspect of our farm. Just as Winter Green Farm’s ecosystem exists within a global ecology, so does our social activity exist within a broader community and societal context. We believe that supporting local community organizations, specific cause related endeavors, and certain agricultural organizations are important. Similarly, we believe that by opening the farm as a place where members of the community can support us, we help strengthen the bonds of community and help heal the rural/urban divide.

PAST APPRENTICE TESTIMONIALS

“It is [a great farm] to learn about larger scale production.” - 2024

Shannon and Chris.

McPherson Farms

McPherson Farms

• 1 APPRENTICESHIP

• FULL TIME (32-40 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: April - September

• $15/HR

• LOCATION: Klamath Basin  (Southern Oregon*)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 45

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING:  2

• PRACTICES: Rotational Grazing, No-till, Low- Tillage, Mechanized/Tractor Farming

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 750

• Meat Production, Hay Production, Small Grains

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No 

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English

*While outside of the Rogue Valley Chapter, some in-person educational events will be within a 90-minute drive from this Host Farm. Attendance at these events is highly encouraged.  

McPherson Farms raises hay, cattle, hogs, and grain. Most of our labor involves tractors and other machines. We practice no-till cultivation where possible, manage our cattle with rotational grazing, and utilize cover crops to improve soil health. Through our work, we strive to maintain both a healthy ecosystem and a productive farm to the best of our ability. 

www.highdeserthighlands.com

https://www.facebook.com/highdeserthighlands 

@highdeserthighlands  

Farm Overview

McPherson Farms sits on 750 acres just outside of Midland, a small community 10 miles south of Klamath Falls, Oregon. Our farm is run by Josh and his mom, Jani, with help from his wife, Marlena, and one employee during the summer months. We raise hay, cattle, hogs, and grain on our farm. We have a small number of our cattle and all our hogs butchered at an inspected facility to sell meat direct-to-consumer through our farm store, the local farmers market, and online marketplace under our brand, “McPherson’s High Desert Highlands”. Our hay is sold locally with a limited number of deliveries, and most of our calves are sold at the local auction yard. Our farm is somewhere between conventional and regenerative. Most of our labor involves tractors and other machines. 

Our area is defined by open farmland with the Cascade Mountains to the west and desert hills to the east. Our farm is in the Pacific Flyway, near several National Wildlife Refuges, providing an important rest area for migratory birds. It is a home for many different species including sandhill cranes, eagles, hawks, coyotes, and the occasional badger or weasel. There are many opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, and fishing within a short drive. Our community is one of family farmers who are generous and look out for each other.

McPherson Farms has operated since 1980, when the McPhersons bought their property. Josh was raised on the farm and has been helping run it his whole life. He has managed irrigation, operated equipment, and helped manage cattle for 25 years. Over that time he has taken over management of the farm. He has long term experience in farm planning, accounting, crop establishment, irrigation, grazing management, crop harvest, livestock care, equipment repairs, and direct-to-consumer sales. He graduated with a degree in geography with minors in philosophy and land use planning. Josh believes that farming can be a way to make the world better by rediscovering traditional practices and embracing new farming methods. This helps integrate our farm with the landscape while still providing for our family and the community. As such, our farm is and may always be a work in progress.

We would like to host an apprentice to pass our skills and knowledge to the next generation of farmers. We have opportunities on our farm to learn through work and experience, the same way Josh did growing up. It would be nice to spend time training someone who wants to participate in all aspects of farming and is eager to learn.

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

Josh has been training and supervising employees on the job for the last 7 years and will be the primary mentor to the apprentice. His wife, Marlena, is a science teacher with 10 years of experience in the field of education. Although she works off the farm during the school year, Marlena works on the farm during the summer and will provide some additional training and support. 

The Apprentice will learn irrigation management and maintenance for hand line, wheel lines, pivots, and flood irrigation. They will learn to construct and maintain both electric and wire fences for livestock. They will help provide daily care for cattle and pigs, as well as how to manage grazing cattle in a rotational system. They will help fulfill online sales and help operate a booth at the farmers market for direct to consumer sales every one to two weeks. They will help plant and establish forage and cover crops. They will help with basic maintenance and operation of farm equipment based on their own comfort and skill level. They will help with the planning and budgeting for one crop from planting to harvest.

We are part of an active community of family farmers and ranchers and will help the Apprentice meet local farmers and coordinate visits to other farms approximately once a month. We will include opportunities to participate in farm community events put on by farm groups like the Klamath-Lake Farm Bureau and introduce them to the people involved in our local food systems non-profit, Klamath Grown.

The position will start on/around April 14th and last until approximately September 14th. We have some flexibility on start and end dates of the Apprentice’s work season if necessary. There will be between 6 and 10 hours of training in a day, 5 days a week. The Apprentice will be expected to show up between 7am and 8am as needed. The schedule can be irregular depending on the harvest schedule, with blocks of training in the morning and evening. The Apprentice will have the opportunity to take a week off from training sometime in July or August. As for physical expectations, the Apprentice should be able to walk 3-4 miles a day and lift 50 lbs easily. The Apprentice can expect to be asked to move bales of hay, lift sacks of seed, carry irrigation pipes, drag irrigation hoses, and pound in fence posts.  

Each morning there will be a check-in and explanation of the tasks for the day, with an opportunity to answer any questions. When the Apprentice is given a new task or project to begin, we will be present to explain and demonstrate the techniques and expectations involved and help get them started. The Apprentice will be given the opportunity to work independently, but a mentor will be a phone call away if troubleshooting is needed. At the end of the day, we will check in and talk about the progress that day and address any concerns or answer questions the Apprentice might have. There will be a whole farm meeting once a week to review everything that we've done and talk about what the next week will look like. Periodically, we will have the Apprentice tag along to get an understanding of jobs on the farm that are outside of their direct experience.    

Qualifications

We would like an applicant who enjoys working outside without close supervision. Some experience around livestock is preferred, and the applicant should have some physical work experience. Applicants should be interested in farming as a future occupation and be willing to work with and cooperate with people of a different mindset. Our family includes children who are intertwined with our farm life. As such, we would prefer family-friendly applicants, and no smoking, alcohol, or drug use.

A vehicle is necessary given the location of our farm. Being able to drive a manual transmission is preferred, but we are willing to train someone who is eager to learn.     

Compensation / Accomodations

The position will start at $15/hr. 

We will provide a stipend for fuel to help with travel to and from the farm and to help the Apprentice participate in the Rogue Farm Corp program. Following a successful season, the Apprentice can expect an end-of-season bonus. The Apprentice will receive an employee discount of 20% on any food purchased from the farm store.

Rentals are available in Klamath Falls and surrounding areas. We will happily advise an Apprentice on good locations to rent in. That being said, we are actively networking to find off-farm housing that we can assist with for the season.

Cell service is available on the whole farm. Wi-fi is available at either of the two houses on the farm.

Equity and Inclusion

On our farm, the only thing we don't tolerate is intolerance. We only ask people that work for us to do jobs that we would be willing to do ourselves. We try to ensure that anyone can afford and access our products, while still providing us and our employees with a living wage.

Past apprentice Testimonials

“There was a great amount of respect and kindness given to me by my mentors. They showed a genuine interest in my progress as a farmer. In addition to teaching me a lot, they also asked my opinions on operations and really listened to my ideas.” - Apprentice, 2023

Marlena and Josh McPherson with their child.