Purpose of position
To provide educational and farm experience while helping operate and develop the farm 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 providing educational programs.
Overview
The Grain Place, Inc. (herein referred to as the farm) is a privately held corporation and is a 280 acre pioneering organic and regenerative farm that has been in the same family since 1953. Controlling ownership resides with Grain Place Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit private operating educational and scientific foundation (herein referred to as Foundation). The farm is also home to Grain Place Foods, Inc. (herein referred to as Foods) a separate corporation that processes and packages certified organic grains and grain products. Cooperation and mutual support between The Grain Place and Grain Place Foods is essential to each.
Roles/Responsibilities and Opportunities…
. . . Work with the Resident Farmer & Farm Manager 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 gain experience and 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 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 contributing member of the farm and part of a new generation of organic and regenerative farmers through:
- Two way learning – you will have the opportunity to learn from others and others will have the opportunity to learn from your insights and ideas.
- 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
- The opportunity to explore and grow in areas aligned to your passions and the mission of the farm
- 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
Accountability
The Farm Intern works cooperatively with the Farm Manager and Resident Farmer(s) under the direction of the farm management team, led by Glenda Vetter and under the mentorship of David Vetter.
