Title: Farm Manager, Nettles Farm

Type: Full-time,  Season begins February 1st, and ends October 30.

Location: Lummi Island, Washington

Compensation: On site living space included.

Nettles Farm, established in 1993, and located on Lummi Island, WA,  is seeking a farmer/farm manager for full time work for the 2011 season. Nettles Farm is a vegetable and poultry farm that grows for our restaurant and inn, The Willows Inn. We have two 100 X 25 hoophouses, and farm 2.5 acres.  Our farmer works closely with the Willows Inn chef, and is responsible for all aspects of the vegetable and egg production from seed to delivery. Working conditions are beautiful and quiet.

On site living space included. Our season begins February 1st, and ends October 30.  Farmer will talk with tourists from the inn periodically throughout the season. Experience growing vegetables and managing a small farm is a must.

To understand more fully what we do, check our websites: www.nettlesfarm.com, and www.willows-inn.com.

Contact: innkeeper@willows-inn.com

Beginning Farmers is proud to present this guest article on Agritourism and Farm Stays, by our friend Michelle Nowak. Be sure to check our Michelle’s blog at: http://farmstays.blogspot.com/

Farm stays are one form of agritourism that is popular elsewhere in the world, though not yet well known here in the United States. But Americans are hungering to reconnect with farms — and yearning for fresh air, fresh food, and authentic, affordable vacations. As the desire to support small family farms grows, so does the appeal of taking a farm vacation. Compared to other kinds of agritourism, farm stays can be personal and foster deeper connections between farmers and their guests.

What is a farm stay?

A farm stay is any type of accommodation on a working farm. Farm stays can be, but aren’t necessarily, interactive. Some are family-focused, offering kids the opportunity to feed the animals and collect eggs. Others don’t allow children at all, instead offering a peaceful retreat for adults. For the accommodations, guests normally pay rates similar to area bed & breakfasts or vacation rentals, although pricing varies considerably. The term “farm stay” can also describe a work exchange agreement, where the guest works a set number of hours per week in exchange for free or very cheap accommodations, such as those set up through World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF). Read more »