Company description

Caney Fork Farms (CFF)  is a diversified regenerative organic farm in middle Tennessee. Our mission is to inspire others with living proof that regenerative organic farming in our region benefits farmers, the environment, and the community. CFF produces mixed vegetables, chestnuts, 100% grass-fed beef and lamb, and pasture-raised pork, and we sell them directly to consumers in our region. Our work is centered around the soil, focusing on carbon farming practices that store atmospheric C02 below ground. In addition to farm production, we have a robust research program studying different organic agriculture methods and how those methods impact soil health, carbon sequestration, and overall agroecosystem health. We organize and share the information we have learned with other stakeholders. 

We are a fun and exciting workplace with challenges and opportunities to expand your knowledge. We believe in the work we are doing, and we take ownership of it. The work environment is communal and nurturing, and we believe in having hard conversations, holding each other accountable, and building trust through vulnerability. We foster a safe space for all walks of life.

Internship description

INTRODUCTION  

The Regenerative Farm Apprenticeship is a hands-on learning experience designed to immerse apprentices in the principles and practices of regenerative agriculture. It spans nearly ten months and provides the opportunity to work across all aspects of the farm, focusing on livestock, vegetable production, and chestnut agroforestry system management. Apprentices will also gain direct-to-consumer marketing experience, preparing them for a career in regenerative farming.

The Apprentice will report to the Head of Research and Outreach and collaborate closely with the Heads of Vegetables & Crops and Livestock.   

KEY ACTIVITIES: 

February to April:

Work primarily with livestock (cattle, sheep, pigs), focusing on rotational grazing systems, pasture management, and basic infrastructure maintenance.
Participate in lambing, calving, and farrowing, ensuring proper care and record-keeping for new livestock.

April to Late September:

Alternate every two weeks between livestock and vegetable production.
In vegetable production: assist in planting, cultivation, pest management, irrigation, harvesting, washing, and packing for both market garden and field-scale crops.
In livestock management: continue rotational grazing, animal health monitoring, and other daily tasks.
Participate in direct-to-consumer marketing at farmers' markets and other venues. 

Late September to Thanksgiving:

Focus on chestnut orchard production, including harvesting, processing, and storing chestnuts.

WHAT WE OFFER: 

Benefits include housing, health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Clear learning objectives that are achieved through hands-on training and mentorship from experienced farmers 
Immersion in diverse and integrated systems of regenerative agriculture, including livestock management, veggie and row crop production, and chestnut agroforestry systems.

A structured schedule that ensures exposure to all aspects of the farm's operations

An exciting and supportive work environment to test your skills while learning

Tour of another regenerative farm in the area

GUIDELINES AND TOOLS 

Guidelines that will help the team member in this position achieve success and follow company procedures include: 

Employee Handbook  
Caney Fork Farms Google Drive, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Core Processes. 
Mission and Values Statement 
Oversight and guidance provided by the Head of Research and Outreach.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION 

Valid Driver’s License
Alignment with the company’s core values
Career interests in regenerative agriculture and sustainable food systems
Strong work ethic, reliability, and enthusiasm for learning
Willingness to learn and receive feedback 
Previous farm experience is helpful but not required

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT 

Ability to perform physical farm tasks, including lifting 50 lbs, bending, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including hot summers and wet winters.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Flexibility to move between supervisors in different aspects of the farm
Willingness to adapt to the amenities (or lack thereof) of a rural Middle Tennessee community 

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $15-20/hr

Application instructions

Deadline

January 10, 2025