*Please note that we have filled all our positions for the coming season (2012), but you are welcome to apply for the 2013 season.

In 2011 Natural Roots begins its fourteenth season here at the farm in Conway.  We are a diversified small family farm.  At present we have about 7 acres under cultivation in either mixed vegetables, berries, and herbs, or green manure and forage crops.  Our produce is marketed exclusively through our CSA of about 220 families, with surplus donated to local people in need.  We also keep a small flock of chickens year-round for egg production and raise two batches of meatbirds for farm use, as well as two hogs to turn compost and for pork.  We and our workhorses are the only source of power for all of the fieldwork.

Workdays are a very full and rewarding 5 and 1/2 days per week.  Basic workhorse care, handling, driving, and fieldwork are a major component of the apprenticeship as well as daily animal chores and pasture management.  We focus on horse nutrition and health, harness fit and care, hoof care, and round pen training.  Crop maintenance tasks include seeding, weeding, trellising, mulching, harvesting, and washing.  Hay harvesting happens seasonally.  Equipment repair and maintenance are important regular responsibilities.  Management of our wood-heated greenhouse, soil fertility, extensive cover cropping, weed control, field rotations, and livestock health are important aspects of the apprenticeship as well.  Simple farm construction and innovative projects abound.  Food preservation, holistic farm management, and starting a farm business are often part of the experience as well.  In addition to education on the farm, we encourage participation in the CRAFT program.  This is a network of area farms which all have apprentices and offer extended learning opportunities through a schedule of rotating on-farm tours and seminars on varied topics.

Two apprentices are employed from March through mid-December.  We are also offering a summer position this year, June through September, which would not include teamster training but would still provide plenty of exposure to our systems.  Prerequisites include a minimum of one year of commercial vegetable production experience, a passion for learning, and physical aptitude.  Accommodations include two small, rustic cabins.  All farm-raised produce plus staples are provided in addition to a monthly stipend.  Worker's Compensation is also provided, as well as the locally available basic health services free to farm workers.

The farm is situated in the beautiful Eastern foothills of the Berkshire Mountains on the edge of the Pioneer Valley. There are limitless outdoor recreational opportunities right out the back door (literally) as well as a wealth of cultural resources within thirty minutes drive.

Please complete our application questionnaire and send with your resume and three references. After receiving your application we may contact you to schedule a farm visit.