Down to Earth Farm
Last Updated On: November 2nd, 2023 at 10:02AM MST
Contact information
Farm Address:9363 Old Plank Rd
Jacksonville, Florida, 32220
Primary Contact: Brian Joseph Lapinski
Primary Phone:
Type: Cell
Number: 9045253309
Email: downtoearthjax@gmail.com
Email: blapinsk@gmail.com
Website: https://www.instagram.com/downtoearthjax/
Internship information
General Farm Description: We have 5 acres of land just ten minutes from downtown Jacksonville. We grow a variety of mixed veggie and cut flower crops on 2 acres. We market through our approximately 25 member CSA and one Saturday farmers markets. We grow using sustainable and regenerative techniques.CRAFT Member Farm? No
Internship Starts: January 2024 (flexible)
Internship Ends: june 15, 2024
Number of Internship Available: 2
Application Deadline: Rolling
Minimum Length of Stay: 2 months, priority given to those that can stay full season
Internship Details:
“We are a small mixed vegetable and cut flower farm, so the intern will be involved in all parts of the process from seeding, to spreading compost, to planting, to weeding (woohoo!), to harvesting, to bouquet making, to working the farmers market to dozens of other tasks that keep our little farm vibrant and running. We are very open to new ideas and insights into making our farm better and more sustainable. We are often experimenting with new varieties and growing techniques. The fresh ideas of our interns have been invaluable!
We have space for two live-in interns. You will have your own room with a shared bathroom and spacious kitchen. It is possible that a couple can share a room. The position is 5 days per week with a stipend $1000/month. The weekly hours are consistent and I am very conscious of your time so we rarely go past 5pm except on some harvest Fridays (or if prepping for a major storm!).
Our farm is just 10 minutes from downtown Jax, one mile from a 14 mile bike trail and 30 minutes to beautiful beaches!”
Educational Opportunities: Every day is a learning experience at our farm. The best way to learn about growing food is by observing as well as getting your hands dirty. I also encourage you to ask questions. Every farm does things a bit differently, and I am happy to share the reason why we do and don't do things at Down to Earth. In addition to hands on learning, we have off farm learning experiences at other farms as well as extension training sessions.
Skills Desired: We strive to be a welcome space for all types of people and encourage applications by bipoc and queer folks. No work experience necessary, but a desire to learn about and practice sustainable agriculture is a must. Ability to work long hours in the heat or cold or rain, and the ability to work independently are important characteristics. Ability to lift a 50 pound bag is necessary. Our intern will be occasionally working at our market stand, so a pleasant disposition and good communication skills are helpful. A valid drivers license is also helpful.
Meals: Meals: Lunch is provided on workdays and veggies and eggs are available at other times based on availability. Cooking and cleaning tasks are shared. The living situation is a communal situation so consideration for others is essential to a positive experience and a successful year. A housing reference will be requested.
Stipend: $1000/month for 5 day work week plus a bonus at the end, if full term is completed.
Housing: The intern has their own bedroom with adjoining bathroom in our very comfortable mobile home. You will share the living space with one or two other interns and our other farmer, Terry. My family and I live in our home which is also on the property. We enjoy sharing life together and often share at least one evening meal together during the week.
Preferred method of Contact: email