Location: Just outside of Leduc

Description of operation: Be part of a unique highly specialized niche farm that produces, transforms and markets odd, unusual and heritage vegetables, free range ducks, duck eggs, geese, turkeys, cornish game hens, and guinea fowl. We sell (uncompromisingly) high-end additive free, processed meat products direct to high end restaurants, select retail and farmers market.

Length of apprenticeship: 12months,  mid April – end October,  June-end October,  July- end Sept

Number of apprentices sought: 4

Areas of potential specialization:
Here is a chance to learn to develop a small farm operation focused on niche marketing high value products from a professional agrologist (PAg for 20+years, worked in all plant area of agriculture with small to large corporations and taught at Olds College). You will be exposed to all aspects of small scale specialty vegetable and fowl production. We believe in a sustainable approach to farming and maximize nutrient use from fowl to gardens. Not accepting status quo in anything, we strive for better and different. We believe in large roaming areas for our fowl, no cages and low stress handling. You will help in all areas of farm as necessary and will be required to choose a special project ie tomatoes etc.

General work expectations: As an intern/apprentice, you will be required to work 6 days a week, approximately 8 hours per day (depending on weather, harvest urgency, etc.).   During the week we begin at 9 am.  Wednesday and Friday harvest days tend to be longer hours.  You will attend the Farmers’ Market from time to time. Every third weekend you may take off Friday after harvest until the following Monday morning.

Minimum expectations:
18 years or older, non smoker, physically fit (able to do manual labour). Must have ability to work with others, have great people skills along, good personal grooming habits, pride in doing tasks well and a willingness to learn with a self motivated desire to succeed.

Lodging:
We have several options for lodging: a winterized trailer that sleeps 3-4 with a kitchen and dining area, bathroom (this is shared with ALL helpers); a smaller trailer sleeps 2 with kitchen, no water; a cabin sleeps 1, fridge, coffee pot, toaster sitting area (winterized), no water

Stipend: Provided. Contact farmer for further details.

Contact Info: Mary Ellen and Andreas Grunenberg 780 986 8680, greenseggsham@xplornet.com; www.albertafarmfresh.com/greens_eggs.htm