Beyond the minimum requirement of helping to operate the farm this position can be expanded and tailored to fit the experience, skills, education, and passions of the person hired. This is a great opportunity for someone to grow and develop as a farmer and an advocate for organic and regenerative practices. The resident farmer/advocate will be supervised and mentored by Grain Place founder, David Vetter, and the farm management team of the Grain Place Foundation Board
Challenges and Opportunities … . . .
To help operate and develop the farm as a source of research and education on behalf of the Foundation and family shareholders consistent with the philosophy and systems historically practiced (rotation plans, field layouts, etc.) and the vision and purpose of the Foundation to advance management of life forms in symbiotic relationships for the production of food, feed, and fiber through operations in cooperation with the local ecology and by conducting research and providing educational programs. . . .
Work with the other resident farmer to perform all tasks associated with the design, establishment, and subsequent upkeep of the farm to ensure a certified organic, sustainable and profitable model is maintained and the health of both animals and crops are kept at the highest level of current certified organic and Regenerative standards. . . .
To have or develop proficiency in performing a variety of tasks required to carry out farm operations in harmony with nature including but not limited to:
- Acquiring, developing, maintaining, and using farm equipment
- Accomplishing appropriate field practices
- Making decisions and practicing irrigation and water management
- Maintaining livestock/animal husbandry practices for animal welfare
- Managing work schedule to complete tasks in a timely fashion in harmony with nature while maintaining personal health
- Maintaining records on farm practices and for USDA Organic, Regenerative, and other certifications
- Maintaining landscaping around farm fields, livestock lots and pastures, and your private living space.
- Collaborating with Grain Place Foods in sharing equipment and maintaining the property including, but not limited to, snow removal, traffic areas, and other common areas.
. . . . Opportunity to become a part of developing organic and sustainable food systems through:
- Dedicating time to learning about certified organic farming systems with a strong adherence to the established Grain Place’s direction over the last four decades
- Gaining on-farm experience including mentoring from veterans of organic and regenerative agriculture
- Becoming involved in field studies including maintaining appropriate data
- Writing timely reports and participating in publication of results
- Participating in seminars with other organizations and hosting visitors . . .
To help develop innovative/non-conventional ideas and practices with a willingness to learn from failures as well as successes, a process requiring flexibility, adaptability, and capacity to document activities and results using available technology (pc, tablets, etc.)
As organic farming is complex and a variety of skills are needed, we ask for a two to five-year commitment. Compensation package includes rent-free housing on the farm, salary $40,000 to $60,000 commensurate with experience and length of commitment, health insurance, employer match for personal retirement investment, share of beef and pork for family, and opportunity to develop compatible enterprise on the farm.
Inquire to Glenda Vetter: gvcp@charter.net (308 383-1716) or Jay Vetter: jay@grainplacefoundation.org (308 850-3020) If inquiring in person at The Grain Place, ask for David or Allison.
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