Astarte Farm in Hadley, Massachusetts is looking for an experienced farm crew leader to oversee all aspects of our certified organic operation. Wholesale outlets have been lined up, there is a heated 26 X 48’ propagation greenhouse, two high tunnels and an irrigation system in place for the upcoming 2015 season. The farm is currently transitioning into a no-till, permaculture operation based on soil food web principles and we are actively trialing various biochar and perennial cover crop treatments in the production beds. The whole farm, with house and barns covers 6.5 acres of land and has been in organic production continually since 2000. The semi-permanent production beds, totaling about 2.7 acres, have grass paths between them and the required organic buffer zone around them is almost completely planted out in beneficial insect habitat. There are 450 row feet of high bush blueberries in production, 300 row feet of newly established bush and tree fruits and 150 row feet of table and wine grape trials.
The desired candidate has several years of certified organic production experience dealing with a wide variety of market garden produce and a familiarity with food safety issues and wholesale packing procedures. Accurate observational skills, clear analytical thinking and a desire to help create new production systems that not only maximize our harvest quality but also increase our measurable soil vitality are key attributes to bring to this position.
The selected candidate will be working under an organic farmer with 45 years experience in the field and industry. Abundant cultural and educational opportunities exist in the five college area including the NOFA summer conference and UMass extension seminars and field days. Compensation will be discussed during the interview. The job will remain open until a qualified applicant is selected. The season generally runs from March 1 to November 30. Housing is not available on the farm.
Please submit a cover letter, resume and references that show your qualifications for this job.
Dan Pratt 413-584-5552 dporganic@aol.com
www.AstarteFarm.com
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