Every year we hear from people interested and sparked by their passion in working with the land and inspired by the learning process that direct engagement with a living medicine farm, mentored by experienced teachers, can provide. The learning is truly accelerated for those willing and able to immerse in this process. Among the tasks you would do: Herb garden care and maintenance - planting, thinning, mulching, general stewardship of herb gardens and crop beds. This is the foundational work of apprentices, out of which apprentices work their way to additional responsibilities Harvesting herbs in the wild and of cultivated beds Apothecary asisstance- this could involve capsulating, decanting tinctures, bottling and labeling products, preparing ingredients for formulations such as salves, balms, lotions and ointments; cleaning jars/lids/bottles, doing local errands, packaging orders, and more. Farmers Market - interfacing with the general public offers huge learning experiences of value to the herbalist - our farmers market is lively, colorful and fun. Just a few positions are open each season, filling up earlier each year. Each individual agreement is different, so it impossible to clarify an exact agreement (hours, schedule, etc) on this web page. Interested parties should call us to discuss their interest and the various options open. Apprenticeships are open to those enrolling in our Seven Saturdays Herbal Studies program, (a complementary endeavor) as well as those who wish to connect with the learning we offer, yet may be unable to participate in that program. Apprenticeships are generally 50-150 hour work programs, beginning as early as March, and finishing as late as October, comprising approximately 12-30 hours per month although the schedule is worked out with the School, during weekday day and/or evening. A heavier schedule during the high summer period is common. Gaia center is unable to offer lodging or camping. Apprenticeships are open by application, and are suitable only to those who are able to prioritize the work schedule during the season- to those unemcumbered by the burden of a heavy outside job schedule, school workload, or other issues which may prevent focused participation. For those integrating herbal studies with a college program, a successful internship with the region's most established medicine farm and learning community is invaluable to career building - the bridges you build will serve you well into the future. Contact us at 734-769-7794 for more information and an application. |
