Paid Farming Apprenticeships in Rockport, Maine

In 2018 Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT) will offer two farm apprenticeships on the Maine coast  – one to focus on raising beef cattle at Aldermere Farm and the other on growing vegetables at Erickson Fields Preserve. The term for each apprenticeship will start in March and may be up to nine-months.

Aldermere Farm and Erickson Fields Preserve are located at the heart of Midcoast Maine just outside Rockport Village and are owned and managed by MCHT as working farms and agricultural education centers. Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association’s Apprenticeship Program is working with MCHT to provide apprentices with additional training and networking opportunities.

Apprentices at Aldermere Farm will experience all facets of managing a herd of registered Belted Galloway beef cattle. Erickson Fields Preserve is an extensive vegetable growing operation where an apprentice will work with local teens and volunteers to grow fresh produce for food pantries, schools and other markets.  Both farm operations are well connected with the regions’ vibrant local food and farm network.

Previous experience farming and educating youth and/or adults are preferred. In addition to their main farm tasks, apprentices will assist with events and implementing sustainable-agriculture programs for youth and adults. The apprenticeships are paid opportunities and include $1,000 monthly stipend, shared housing, benefits, training and supervision.

Deadline for applications is February 5; work start date is March 15. To review farm listings and apply, visit “Programs” page at www.MOFGA.org; listings are under Knox County, see KNX-26 for Aldermere and KNX-27 for Erickson. For more information on application process, e-mail [email protected] or call 207-568-4142. For more information on apprenticeships, contact the Aldermere Farm office at [email protected] or 207-236-2739.