
Apple Pond Farm
and Renewable Energy Education Center
Farm Apprentices
Throughout the years, more than 300 farming and renewable energy apprentices from 13 countries and all regions of the USA have spent 3 months to a year or longer with us. Many now operate profitable farms, serve as examples in their communities of sustainable economic farming or serve in positions of significant responsibility in the sustainable offices of universities, city government, commercial renewable energy companies and not-for-profit organizations.
Apprentices are all ages. Some have a strong interest in exploring farming as a profession. Some want to learn new skills to help them implement their beliefs about food, energy, sustainability and climate change. All are focused hard workers, people who enjoy working with others, engaging farm guests in conversation, and sharing their own ideas and experiences. Some farm related experience is appreciated. However, every apprentice has skills to teach us.
The farm apprentices have the following basic responsibilities and learning opportunities:
-
Organic production of vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers
-
Raising sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys and caring for horses
-
General farm maintenance
-
Praticipation in the farm education program
-
Learning about the farm’s renewable energy practices and systems
Farm apprentice positions are year-round and for three months or longer.
If you want to come for a shorter period, why not try WWOOFing? World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms www.wwoof.usa



Sustainability Apprentice
Sustainability apprentices work with Dick Riseling on implementing additional energy efficiency/renewable energy systems at Apple Pond Farm as well as projects of Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development, Inc. a not-for profit consulting corporation that serves as consultant to Sullivan County businesses and homeowners.
Apprentices will:
-
Do basic and applied research on breakthrough technology and data needed for current projects
-
Prepare short reports
-
Participate in town, county government and regional energy consortiums
-
Assist in maintenance of Apple Pond Farm energy systems
-
Have strong computer and writing skills
-
Knowing sustainability and renewable energy issues is preferred but not necessary


