Misty Acres

Last Updated On: marzo 18th, 2021 at 11:20AM MST

Contact information

Farm Address:
3860 N. long lake rd
Benzonia, Michigan, 49616

Primary Contact: Samantha Griffin
Primary Phone:
    Type: Cell
    Number: 2319445547
    Email: sgriffin@gtrlc.org

Website: https://www.gtrlc.org

Internship information

General Farm Description: Misty Acres: The Borwell Preserve is a 600-acre property that straddles the Benzie-Manistee County line. It includes more than 360 acres of hardwood forest, 6200 feet of the Betsie River and sensitive wetlands. It also includes a farm that is home to a small herd of sustainably managed Belted Galloway cattle. The cattle are rotated from pasture to pasture on a regular basis, and this continual movement of the herd helps improve soil health and allows for quicker regeneration of pastures. Through this form of pasture management, the Conservancy produces grass-fed beef that is raised, processed, and consumed entirely within our region. The goal is to provide a sustainable, local protein source while demonstrating best practices that ensure the health of this and other local farm lands. Misty Acres is also home to a herd of seven retired dairy goats. During the growing season, this herd of goats travel to various GTRLC preserves to help with the control of invasive plant species. The goats accomplish their work by vigorously consuming invasive plants within a designated fenced in area of the property.

CRAFT Member Farm? No

Internship Starts: Mid-May
Internship Ends: Mid-August, with option to extend work through November if interested
Number of Internship Available: 1
Application Deadline: April 9th
Minimum Length of Stay: 3 months

Internship Details:

The Farm Assistant will assist Farm Manager with day-to-day operations of
the farm or fill in for the Farm Manager during vacation or sick leave. These duties will
include basic maintenance, operations of the farm, and care of the animals. This employee will
also be asked to assist with other Misty Acres projects as needed. More than one short-term
employee may hold this position in order to accomplish necessary tasks or to provide
availability throughout the year.

Educational Opportunities: GTRLC has 25 employees, a robust Volunteer Program, connections to numerous landowners, and partnerships with governmental agencies and other non- profits. Interning with GTRLC provides numerous opportunities to interact with, learn about, and explore many facets of our work and community. Specific opportunities available for this position include:  Firsthand observation of the work of non-profit sector, specifically land conservation work.  Involvement with on-the-ground demonstration of land use that integrates conservation, agriculture, and community. Exposure to other land stewardship methods on different types of GTRLC managed land  Working with various staff, volunteers, and others to experience different roles, work styles, and perspectives on our work.  Working to enhance native habitat as part of the agricultural and natural landscape.  Ability to explore and implement independent projects that achieve your personal development goals and areas of interest while adding value to our work.  Gaining experience with rotationally grazed grass-fed cow/calf and beef finishing operation.  Gaining experience with goats and invasive species management.  Gaining experience with volunteer coordination.  Observe and assist with project management, basic farm management, budgeting, and project and farm planning activities.

Skills Desired: This position requires a basic level of experience working on a farm operation including animal care and general farm maintenance. Position also requires a strong interest along with some education or training in Natural Resource Management and sustainable farming practices.

Meals: NO

Stipend: $15/hr 40hrs/week

Housing: Housing is available for a rental fee of $100/month

Preferred method of Contact: email