Students for Farm Training Program (7255)

The Great Lakes Incubator Farm(GLIF) located in Traverse City, MI is seeking to recruit students into the Farm Training program for the 2025 growing season. While technically not a job, it is a great opportunity for someone looking to get hands-on farming experience combined with a comprehensive educational curriculum.

This GLIF program is best suited for those who are confident that farming is their chosen path. Admission is competitive, with only five students accepted each year. Participants must commit fully to the seven month program, which begins in mid-March. During this time, students work closely with our staff to prepare the soil, organize materials, optimize equipment, and finalize crop and marketing plans. As the season progresses, participants gain hands-on experience in all aspects of farming—from cultivation and planting to problem-solving, harvesting, and marketing their products.

Students will collaborate by working directly alongside the Farm Manager to run a fully functioning farm business while also engaging in classroom instruction, field demonstrations, and daily fieldwork. The program culminates in the development of an independent farm business plan, which each participant presents to their peers and the farm manager.

Across the river from the Boardman River Nature Center is the site of Grand Traverse Conservation District’s newest program – The Great Lakes Incubator Farm (GLIF). Located on Grand Traverse County's historic Meyer Farm property, GLIF is an active land-based agricultural program that fosters the growth and development of new and beginning farmers in Northwest Lower Michigan.

GLIF will serve as a demonstration farm where community members can gather and connect to learn about natural resources, conservation, agriculture, food, farming systems, and best and regenerative practices.

Program Requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older
• Be committed and capable of performing physically demanding work for 8+ hours/day, 5-7 days a week 
• Available for the full 7-month program(April -October-with up to 1 week of scheduled time off)
• Willing to communicate respectfully with the farm manager, fellow participants, and incubator farmers
• Participate in monthly check-ins throughout the growing season
• Able to accept direction and constructive feedback from the farm manager
• Financially able to cover living expenses during the program (a need-based $1,000/month living stipend is available)
• Farming experience is recommended but not required

Some experience recommended, but not required. Just need a willingness and openness to learn who to farm.

None

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Acquire the hands-on experience and education required to run a farm business.