The Berry Patch in Stephentown NY is recruiting for 3 farm apprentices to learn and work in berry, vegetable and cut flower production, harvest, handling and marketing. We are committed to providing an educational experience for apprentices, while learning from and with each other. Production will involve all aspects of production in greenhouse, high tunnels, and field, with an emphasis on planting, irrigation, fertilization, crop rotation and weed control. Harvest will include some supervision of the harvest crew, evaluating and reporting efficiency of harvest crew and hand harvesting. Handling will include preparing produce for the farm store, farmers market and restaurant delivery. Marketing will include assisting customers in our marketing outlets, handling money and cash registers and social media.
The desired candidates should have creativity, enthusiasm, flexibility, curiosity, and a proven work ethic. We are looking for people with a passion and knowledge of local farms and local food; and interest in helping customers learn how to enjoy local foods. Apprentices should be motivated and have a positive attitude and be able to work independently, quickly, and efficiently.
The Berry Patch is a small scale, diversified family farm run by the wife/husband team of Dale-Ila Riggs and Don Miles. The farm is a first generation family farm that was started in 1995 from a worn out corn field. The farm is a sustainable operation that is customer oriented, friendly and provides a unique opportunity for learning. The farm’s motto is “Always fresh, exclusively local, growing twelve months a year”. Our mission is to provide products and services that improve the health, well being and quality of life of our customers, our community, our employees, and our family.
For a full position announcement, email us at rberriesrgreat@fairpoint.net.