Farming in Metropolis
I live in a big city where the talk of the town is all about technology and manufacturing. I see myself working with the earth as soon as I finish high school and save enough money to move to the mid or southwest. But, where can I go to get farming experience now? A summer job would be great but I will also take on a volunteer job if someone would be willing to take me on with no previous experience. I’m not afraid of getting my hands dirty and will work for lunch money as long as I can learn how to grow. My dad say’s to apply for work at a grocery store or supermarket but I don’t want to stock vegetables I want to grow them. Where can I start looking?
Hi Andre, This article has a listing of farming opportunities throughout the major cities in the US. Check it out.... http://seedstock.com/2014/05/27/10-american-cities-lead-the-way-with-urban-agriculture-ordinances/
There should be a local 4H club in town. Even large metropolitan areas have Co-ops, Farmers Markets, etc. You can locate these, meet people who are working in the industry and possibly come on board with a job or volunteer opportunity. Don't discount local colleges and sustainability groups that are offering all kinds of learning workshops. If you have a Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joes supermarket they have community boards where many farmers, organizations post information too. Contact beekeepers' organizations, urban developments that are planting community gardens, and local gardening groups too. I would even ask your school counselor to help you with the search for 4H groups. Many Boyscout troops have taken to planting community gardens. Think outside the box. A little internet research and you should come up with plenty of resources. I was born and raised in Miami, FL. so I understand living in a city doesn't always seem like the right fit when you want to work with the Earth, but it's usually in the least likely places that this kind of endeavor makes the most impact. Computer geniuses have to eat too. Go for it and good luck!