Thimbleberry Collaborative Farm

Thimbleberry Collaborative Farm

1 APPRENTICESHIP

• PART TIME (30 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: Mid-March - Mid-November

• $18/HR

• LOCATION: Boring  (Portland Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 3

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING:  1

• PRACTICES: Low-Till, Regenerative, Organic Practices (Not Certified)

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 1/3

• Vegetable Production, Culinary Herbs, Medicinal Herbs, Fruit, Poultry(Eggs), Cut Flowers, Orchard Production

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No 

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English

• Non-Profit Farm, Educational Farm

2023 was our first year of production on this land, and we’ve been experimenting with no/low-till strategies for growing our annual vegetables to great success. This means there is a lot of hand work, including weeding, harvesting, and removing plants at the end of their cycle to leave roots in place whenever possible. Though we are not certified organic, we do not use pesticides or herbicides, and take a “from the soil up” approach - meaning we aim to build the appropriate soil biome for plants to thrive in using natural methods, and aim to keep the soil growing plants or in a protective cover as much of the year as possible. We are in the beginning stages of learning about the soil food web and how we can support this biome, and look forward to any experience or knowledge a potential Apprentice can contribute. 

We believe farming is a constant learning experience that should be fluid, so we adapt our methods on a daily basis to account for the needs of the plants and those of us who tend them. In the winter, our fields are partially cropped to late-fall and over-wintered vegetables, cover crops, and partially covered with compost and tarps to ensure we have fertile ground ready to be planted in early spring. We have  newly-established perennial native plantings along our learning garden and in blocks along our main field, as well as a small stand of mature blueberries and various herbs bordering our in-ground and raised beds. Finally, we have a mature orchard featuring apples, plums, pears and cherries. 

www.thimbleberrycollaborativefarm.org 

@thimbleberrycollaborativefarm

FARM OVERVIEw

We are situated on 5 acres just outside Boring, Oregon - 30 miles east of downtown Portland, 57 miles from Mt. Hood, and surrounded by some of the best natural beauty and recreational opportunities in Oregon. Approximately ⅓ of an acre of our farm is in no/low-till, mixed annual vegetables, and another ¼ acre is planted to boysenberries which are currently leased and managed by a nearby Organic certified farmer. We have a large learning garden with several raised and in-ground beds, as well as perennial native plantings, blueberries, and herbs, and a small, mature orchard of apple, plum, pear and cherry trees. There is a large shop which contains our packing/storage/refrigeration, a seed propagation greenhouse, and a home which serves as our office/communal kitchen/meeting space. 

We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization, and our produce is provided at no cost to the recipients through donations to local food pantries in east Multnomah and Clackamas Counties, as well as through a farm-to-table meal delivery program that we piloted for two years. With this program, patients of Wallace, a medical clinic in Rockwood, received weekly meals prepared and delivered to them by Milk Crate Kitchen, a non-profit production kitchen. We also set up a weekly, free farm stand onsite at the clinic where patients receive fresh produce to take home. Our educational programs are constantly growing, so field trips and workshops involving school-age children as well as adults are a regular occurrence on and off the farm. Finally, we have 4 laying hens and 5 ducks, which we hope to incorporate into the fertility plan of the farm by utilizing manure and “chicken tillage” of cover crop residue, as well as their pest management capabilities. 

So far, our farm crew consists of one full-time farmer (Drew), two staff on harvest and transplanting days as needed, a part-time farm assistant, and additional support from board members and volunteers during work parties and other events. 

Drew is the primary farmer/Farm Operations Manager at TCF. We are a small team of just 1 part-time and 3 full-time employees (plus an awesome Board of Directors), so on any given day each of us may be helping out in the field, learning garden, orchard, or supporting each other with other tasks not directly related to growing food. Though TCF was established just 3 years ago (2023 being our first season on our current land), Drew has 10+ years of farming experience, having previously owned his own CSA/market farm south of Eugene, Oregon, where he also grew using natural methods but with a more traditional tillage approach. Drew noticed that repeated tillage had a very detrimental effect on the soil and thus the crops, but didn’t have the resources needed to implement some of the exciting low-till methods we use here at Thimbleberry. He believes that farming and tending plants comes naturally to most people, so his general philosophy is that there is no “right” way to do something. That being said, through repeated trial and error he has developed preferences for how to approach tasks, and will expect anyone helping on the farm to utilize these techniques unless agreed otherwise. We have found that it is easy to become myopic in farming, so we encourage questions about the “why” of any given task or technique. Generally, we find farmers to be some of the smartest, most ingenuitive people around, and have no doubt that we can learn much from even the greenest thumb. We value direct communication, consistency, punctuality, hard work, laughter/fun, and camaraderie amongst the staff and community that surrounds us at TCF. One of our favorite parts of working at the farm is our weekly staff meal, prepared mostly with ingredients from the fields!

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

Apprentices will primarily be involved in the day-to-day physical operations of the farm, including, seed propagation, transplanting, weeding, cover crop establishment/management, drip irrigation installation and management, harvesting, washing/packing/delivering produce, small machinery/hand tool operation (BCS walk-behind tractor, mower, weed whacker, stirrup hoes, shovels, etc.), compost production, chicken/duck care, record keeping, and various other tasks related to the smooth operation of the farm. Occasionally, Apprentices may support other staff in activities such as field trips, workshops, or tabling at farm stands/farmer’s markets/events. In addition, Apprentices have the opportunity to engage in aspects of the non-profit side of the farm, such as supporting fund-raising events like our annual harvest celebration or community nights facilitated by local partners. Much of the farm management aspect of the farm such as crop-planning, seed ordering, and budgeting is done during the winter months, so exposure to learning experiences in these areas will be limited, though time can be set aside to discuss these aspects if desired. Since we are not a typical “market” farm, experience in the retail, direct to consumer aspects common with many small farm operations such as farmers markets and CSA programs won’t be provided, though our farm-to-table program will provide experience in setting up a farm stand and interacting with other nonprofits serving the community. 

Typical start time is between 8-9am Monday-Friday, depending on the required task, and will generally end by 4:30pm, with Monday/Wednesday/Friday being harvest days and therefore requiring the most support. During peak season, harvest days may begin at 7am and end by 3pm. We do not generally work more than 8 hours on any given day. The majority of a prospective apprentice’s time will be spent supporting harvesting, washing, weeding, and transplanting crops. Essentially, every day is a “training day” in the sense that through repetition and working side-by-side with the Farm Operations Manager, the Apprentice will gain a thorough understanding of the day to day operation of the farm. Detailed training in other aspects of the farm will be determined through our regular check-ins and identifying gaps in knowledge or proficiency in real time. Questions about processes and techniques are encouraged to ensure work can be done safely and efficiently, and that the Apprentice ends the season with as comprehensive an understanding as possible. 

Time off requests will be granted within reason and with 2 weeks advance notice, to ensure the workload can be covered by existing staff. At this time, we are unable to offer paid time off, and will need to limit time off to sick days and shorter duration absences. However, we are flexible and happy to work with prospective Apprentices to find a consistent schedule that works for everyone. 

Occasionally, Apprentices may be asked to support staff during other activities that occur during irregular work hours, such as weekend volunteer days, evening events, etc., or in non-farming related events such as community workshops or field trips. These activities are an important part of TCF, and are integral to our function as a non-profit, educational farm serving the surrounding community. 

Most instruction and learning will be through hands-on application of farming techniques in day-to-day operations. Support such as reading materials in specific areas such as soil test interpretation, low/no-till techniques, etc., will be provided throughout the season when appropriate. Regular check-ins with the Farm Operations Manager and/or our Executive Director will help narrow in on prospective areas of mutual growth and development, and additional support and time to focus on filling knowledge gaps will be provided. Depending on hourly availability, Apprentices may attend weekly staff meetings to stay engaged with overall operations when appropriate. Drew will be working closely with Apprentices on a daily basis in the field, so there will be ample opportunity to ask questions, explore and deepen technical abilities, and work together to ensure all learning goals are met. Regular evaluations and feedback will be provided on a mutual basis, both formally and informally.

COMPENSATION / ACCOMMODATIONS

We can offer $18/hour and access to food from the farm. We would also reimburse for OFC tuition. 

Local housing options in case a placement is coming into the area and needs housing: Rentals in Portland are fairly expensive and can be difficult to come by, and would require a commute of 30 minutes to an hour, depending on location. The surrounding community of Boring may be somewhat limited as well due to its smaller size, but nearby Gresham may provide more affordable options and a quicker commute.

QUALIFICATIONS

Generally, a farm apprentice here at TCF needs to have a strong work ethic, good communication (direct and respectful), be punctual, and have an ability to be flexible and self-motivated to jump in and support wherever they are needed. An ability to work outside in various weather conditions, as well as tolerate days consisting mostly of physical labor and some repetitive tasks are essential. Consistency and attention to detail, as well as a desire to learn through trial and error are a benefit, and a desire to support our under-served community members is essential. A good sense of humor and ability to have fun while we work is one of the core values here at TCF, as well!

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Equity and inclusion are at the core of our values and mission at TCF. Every aspect of our physical farm and learning garden space was created with accessibility in mind; From our semi-raised, permanent bed systems in the row crop area, to the permanent raised and ADA accessible beds and traversable paths in our learning garden, we’re making continuous improvements to ensure access for everyone. As collaboration is a key aspect of our organization, we treat each person we come in contact with as a potential partner/teacher and valued voice in the co-creation of our farm and the greater food system we inhabit. Our mission to increase access to free/affordable, healthy food for low-income, underserved communities is the guiding principle that ensures we are making the greatest impact on food justice and security that we can as a small organization. Partnerships with local schools and organizations that are already working to support these communities increase our potential to help create a strong and lasting network that can bolster existing efforts towards these goals. Undergirding everything is a sense of humility and openness to new ideas, perspectives, and educational opportunities. As a staff, we’ve incorporated weekly readings and film screenings in order to educate ourselves about the current and historical issues facing the various cultural communities that make up East Multnomah and Clackamas Counties, especially issues related to food systems and agriculture. We use what we learn in these weekly discussions to shape our programs, design our educational curricula and crop plans, inform our relationship-building efforts with community partners, as well as our team recruitment efforts, and more. Finally, we acknowledge that lived experience is a crucial component in an individual’s desire and ability to contribute to the work of food justice, and weigh it equally with other considerations when reviewing applicants for all positions within our organization.

PAST APPRENTICE TESTIMONIALS

“Very welcoming environment, felt at home immediately. Drew was a great mentor and I really appreciated getting to learn all aspects of the farm.” - 2024

Drew

www.thimbleberrycollaborativefarm.org

Wild Child

WILD CHILD

• 2 APPRENTICESHIPS

• FULL TIME (40  hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: April -December

• $16/HR
  
  

• LOCATION: Noti (Willamette Valley Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 5

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING:  New Host Farm

• PRACTICES: Certified Organic

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 5 

• Fruits, Vegetables, Seed Production, Poultry, Culinary Herbs, Medicinal Herbs

• ON-FARM HOUSING? Yes 

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? Yes

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English

• Women-Owned/Operated

Production on our farm is seed-to-seed and loyal to the soil at every turn.
With a dedication to regenerative farming practices we aim to build up the health and life of the soil under our feet.

https://www.soworganicseed.com/

https://www.facebook.com/soworganicseed

@soworganicseed

FARM OVERVIEW

We reside and farm on 16 acres of mixed fields and woods nestled into the foothills of Oregon's Coastal range. The farm is 15 minutes from Veneta and 40 from Eugene. We are a family of 5 on the farm: Alva(32) Osana(33)and our three kids. (Ages 6-13). There are two barns, several greenhouses and 5 acres of production land. 

On certified organic land we raise fresh market crops of fruits and vegetables for sale at Farmers Markets and wholesale outlets. Being able to vend throughout the growing season gives the farm the income needed to follow our second, deepest passion, Seed Farming. For years we have been growing and breeding open-pollinated heirloom seeds on contract for well known seed companies and starting soon, we are launching our own packet line.

Many of our employees are heading off to start a farm enterprise of their own and we are heading into the year ahead with plans of cultivating relationships with some new farmers who are looking to walk their own farming path with firmer footing. 

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

The exposure an Apprentice will receive on our farm is aimed to be the most well-rounded farming experience we can offer. Producing a high diversity of crops on a small scale, each member of our team will be exposed to every aspect of the farm throughout the seasons.
From tasks like seeding, planting, cultivating, trellising, selecting, harvesting, to washing & packing, and the proper use and management of the equipment needed to accomplish all of these tasks. 

Interns will additionally be trained in record keeping for both general farm management and Oregon Tilth Organic Certification requirements. 

Marketing of our fresh produce crops is done primarily at the local farmers market, with in depth training on sales, presentation and marketing.

Working side by side with the Osana and Alva will allow good time for instruction, clarification, and reassurance. We are expecting interns to commit to approx. 40 hours/week per week plus the RFC training sessions. Participating in the growing season in that manner will allow a participant to gain a well rounded experience and a better understanding of farming seed to seed.

**This job requires lots of physically demanding manual labor and the ability to comfortably lift 40+ lbs. Sitting, Standing, Crouching for extended periods of time, exposure to sun, heat, rain and cold and all the weather in between.** 

We will demonstrate and work alongside Apprentices and explain core concepts, ideas and skills. There will be time for questions and check-ins throughout the season.
Please note : There are no tobacco products or tobacco use permitted on the property. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Please share our passion for agriculture, local food systems and commitment to your community, understand and value organic and sustainable farming practices, and have a genuine passion for working with the land, plants, animals, and natural processes.
Apprentices should be interested in learning new farming techniques, gaining knowledge about crop management, soil health, and farm operations and have the physical ability to perform tasks that require manual labor and work in varying weather conditions.
We ourselves take great pride in the following attributes and seek them from our farm crew and friends:

Dependable: Shows up on time and consistently completes tasks to the best of their ability.
Motivated: Takes initiative and is proactive in completing farm duties without needing constant supervision.
Collaborative: Works well with others and contributes to a positive, productive team environment.
Respectful: Treats colleagues, customers, and farm plants and animals with respect, maintaining a harmonious atmosphere on the farm.
Flexible: Adaptable to different roles and tasks, understanding that farm work can vary based on the season or the needs of the crop at hand.

Previous farming experience is noted and appreciated, but never required. 

COMPENSATION / ACCOMMODATIONS

The wage for the season is $16/hr with the potential for raises throughout the year. 
As on many food production farms, we regularly get to feast on the freshest and highest quality produce around. We offer apprentices and employees access to as much fresh produce as you can eat throughout the growing seasons.
There is an end of the season bonus for Apprentices who complete the agreed upon season.

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

At Wild Child Farm we are committed to honoring diversity and promoting equity in every aspect of what we do. We actively seek to create an inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds are valued, supported, and empowered. By embracing diverse perspectives and experiences, we aim to foster a farm crew that reflects the richness of our community and ensures equal opportunities for all.

Alva, Osana, and family.

PCC ROCK CREEK LEARNING GARDEN

PCC ROCK CREEK LEARNING GARDEN

• 1 APPRENTICESHIP

• PART TIME (14 hours/week)

• APPROX START/END DATES: March - November

• $16.30/HR

• LOCATION: Portland  (Portland Chapter)

• YEARS IN PRODUCTION: 14

• PREVIOUS YEARS HOSTING: 2

• PRACTICES: Low-Till, No-Till, Organic Practices (Not Certified)

• ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 3/4

• Vegetables, Fruit, Culinary Herbs, Medicinal Herbs, Seed Production, Vineyard
  

• ON-FARM HOUSING? No 

• VEHICLE REQUIRED? No

• LANGUAGES SPOKEN: English , Spanish

• Educational Farm

The PCC Rock Creek Learning Garden is part of a network of 5 gardens across the PCC district designed to create safe, welcoming, educational spaces that were built for and by students. The gardens promote interdisciplinary academic achievement, leadership development, curricular and co-curricular opportunities and model sustainable food systems through dynamic and responsive hands-on education. These living classrooms work to offer equity-centered learning opportunities, cultivate a sense of belonging and promote community on campus in our support of food sovereignty.

https://www.pcc.edu/sustainability/on-campus/rock-creek/rock-creek-learning-garden/

FARM OVERVIEW

Portland Community College is the largest higher education institution in the state of Oregon. The Rock Creek Campus rests on 250 acres of  Tualatin Kalapuya land in Washington County, 20-30 minutes outside of downtown Portland. The Learning Garden is nestled near the main buildings on campus and consists of 3.5 acres with 50 fruit trees, 50 blueberries, grapes, brambles and many fruits and vegetables. Our campus is also home to wooded trails, the riparian habitat surrounding Rock Creek, a large recreational public park with sports fields operated by Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District, as well as the 5 Oaks Museum. 

The Learning Garden produces thousands of pounds of food each season, which are primarily donated to the food pantry on campus. We rely primarily on hand work, but also keep a new BCS walk-behind tractor just in case! We are no-spray, practice extensive cover cropping and are moving towards the production of our own usable compost. Our farm crew is always in flux - we have volunteer hours 10am-1pm Tuesday-Friday and we meet whoever is volunteering where they're at and re-prioritize based on inclusion. 

The Learning Garden in its current iteration was established in 2012. Miriam has served as the Rock Creek Campus Learning Garden Coordinator since 2017. She ran her own 8-acre farm from 2011-2016, co-owned/operated a 25-acre production from 2006-2011, and worked on other peoples' farms from 1999-2003. She is interested in seed-saving, seed stories and the dignity of all living creatures. 

TRAINING AND EXPECTATIONS

Crop-planning is collaborative. Greenhouse work begins in February. We plant, cultivate, harvest, wash and deliver food together. Efficiency does not dictate here! However, Miriam can offer insights based on her 15 years of production experience. 

Our production is highly unpredictable because of our ethic of working in community, where building trust and creating learning opportunities are valued more highly than task completion. That said, because the majority of work is by hand, it is possible and probable that work will be physical and conditions may not always be easy. 

The goal is to co-create a schedule that allows for 10-12 hours of labor in partnership, 1-2 hours of solitary labor pursuing a special project, and 45 minutes to an hour a week for check-ins, questions, and reflection.                                                                                                               

QUALIFICATIONS

• Willingness to learn, honest communication, reliability, and attention to detail 

• Considerate communication skills 

• A genuine delight for people and plants

COMPENSATION AND ACCOMMODATIONS 

$16.30 per hour. The Apprentice can share in the harvest, seeds and entry into the PCC hiring system and diverse community of students, staff, faculty and campus neighbors. 

The PCC Rock Creek site  is located in a semi-urban area of Portland with various options for housing close by. There is low-cost housing in the area, and the campus is served by public transportation.

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

As LG coordinator Miriam has been building relationships for years with colleagues in Accessible Education and Disability Resources, the Dreamer Center, English for Speakers of Other Languages, and so many other departments on campus. This has guided the direction of the garden and created a welcoming space for everyone who wants to be in the garden.

Miriam, Learning Garden Coordinator