GARDEN EDUCATION & PRODUCTION INTERN

SUMMARY:
Assist in the upkeep of a 3.5 acre organic and biodynamic garden; assist in all gardening, harvesting and produce preparation tasks; conduct research as needed and prepare materials for educational presentations and/or use in garden administration.

SOME OF THE ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
§ Harvest fruits and vegetables from the COPIA Gardens; clean and arrange produce as needed
§ Prepare plant beds, soil and compost for use in the garden
§ Maintain the garden signage and various displays in both the garden and inside the center
§ Assist with all garden work, watering, planting, pruning, harvesting
§ Assist with the research, development and production of garden-related educational stations
§ Provide research and prepare class materials as needed
§ Participate in the production of large-scale Edible Garden festival in August
§ Train for and lead 30-minute garden tours to visitors on occasion

INTERNSHIP GOALS
§ Gain hands-on practical experience with organically grown produce and other edible plants in a public garden
§ Learn about composting and other biodynamic gardening practices
§ Practice public speaking and teaching skills by presenting gardening topics to the public Research and develop educational materials on food and plants in the garden
§ Participate in large-scale garden event
 
PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS:
§ Basic knowledge of gardening and farming, especially organic
§ Background in education desirable
§ Good computer skills (Word, Excel)
§ Strong communication skills
§ Ability to perform manual labor in relation to gardening activities – picking, carrying, lifting
§ Must be able to spend extended periods of time (up to 4 hours at a time) standing, walking, climbing steps or slopes with periodic bending, twisting and lifting of heavy items such as landscape supplies, equipment, etc.