Mansfield Heritage Farm
2 Positions Available for 2012
This is a new 100 acre farm owned by a retired teacher just east of Mansfield (about one hour north just off Airport Rd. The principle farmer is a young woman who is a graduate of two academic farming programs and considerable experience. Most of the farm is in hay and only a small part is used for organic vegetables. We intend to double to 2 acres this summer. From experiencing the curiosity and enthusiasm of city folk, we have decided that education of visitors is our biggest focus and have designed the gardens to provide the most information on the widest number of topics (herb gardens in foot square raised containers, hanging gardens, rotation planting and companion planting etc.) We use organic methods and have learned what to hill and what not to hill etc.
We have chickens, both layers and meat birds. The latter are in a hoop house on wheels, an invention of Mennonites which provided fresh grass and protection from predators
We will have bees this year and a neighbour who is a bee keeper will ensure that we get off to a good start. A neigbouring farmer has sheep in our barn so we have the opportunity to learn about care of sheep.
Our small dwarf tree orchard is maintained by an arborist who uses organic methods. It is just beginning to produce.
Sales
We sell to the 100 Mile Store in Creemore, and to two local restaurants. We started our third Farmers’ Market, finally with success, at Rosemont beside The Globe Restaurant.
We have experimented with CSA membership and will increase that this year, with added variety of vegetables.
Cooking Classes
We have been experimenting with holding cooking classes and because of last year’s success with two chef-run classes for about 15 participants, we will increase to at least 6 classes.
Education Opportunities
Interns will have the opportunity to learn through visits to other farms through the CRAFT program besides helping with the planning and executing of on-site farming. There is a good library in the prep room. We are low-key but hard-working, expecting commitment rather than watching the clock.
Accomodation is available in a new annex which has a twin-bedded room and a bathroom with a shower. The other half of this building has a full kitchen and is a space for workshops and preparing vegetables for market. There is a swimming pool for use by all. Interns will be responsible for cooking and preparing their own meals. A farm car will be available for their use on farm business so a license is necessary. An honourarium will be provided.
Length of Season
The internships will run from Apr 23-Sept 15.
Contact: Joan VanDuzer, joanvanduzer@mac.com or 416 432-4934
Website www.mansfieldheritagefarm.ca
