Every year the apprenticeship program of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) serves up to 200 potential farmers, with or without previous farming experience. MOFGA pairs these future growers with experienced organic farmers who are willing to share their knowledge and skills.
Typically an apprentice works on a farm in exchange for room, board, a stipend and informal, intensive training and experience in farming.
In addition to the individual farm experience, MOFGA offers many opportunities throughout the year for apprentice networking and supplemental learning, including its Farm Training Project – in-depth tours of Maine organic farms in the company of other apprentices and MOFGA staff, usually followed by lively potluck suppers. Several day-long and multi-day educational events complement the farm-based learning, including a Spring Growth Conference and a three-day-long fall Farmer-to-Farmer Conference.
For more information and to apply for a MOFGA apprenticeship position, please click on the “Programs” tab at www.mofga.org.