SCOPE OF WORK

The New Roots program operates a five-acre urban farm in West Sacramento that supports refugee and immigrant farmers and program participants to grow culturally relevant crops for local markets. Support a variety of work at the New Roots program’s farm and community gardens, including regular farm work, farm and garden maintenance, and small projects. 

Intern duration: 4 months minimum, 240 hours total  
Volunteer duration: 3 – 4 months minimum, HOURS: 3-6 hours/week

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

The farm requires a high level of regular maintenance to ensure participants can be successful; the farm maintenance intern/volunteer will be a critical asset to the successful operation of the farm. In addition, the IRC manages three community gardens in Sacramento which also require regular support and maintenance. Weekly activities might include: 

  • Preparing land for planting and crop production; adding compost to planting beds;
  • Shoveling, raking, and spreading compost and mulch in the field ;
  • Harvesting crops, and washing and packing produce for markets;
  • Weighing produce and recording inventory for markets;
  • Supporting staff with irrigation repairs and installing new water lines as needed;
  • Working with power tools to support staff with small building and repair projects as needed;
  • Mowing and using a weedwhacker to clear weeds;
  • Performing basic maintenance on the young fruit-tree orchard (adding amendments, managing irrigation, mulching, protecting from frost, etc.);
  • Manual removal of large weeds by hand or digging with a shovel;
  • Using a wheelbarrow to move soil and green waste.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Previous knowledge and/or experience in agriculture or gardening is ideal, but not required;
  • Must be willing to do physically demanding work outdoors in all weather conditions;
  • Ability to walk, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50lbs;
  • Must have reliable transportation;
  • Must be able to volunteer within the following schedule: Monday and/or Thursdays, between 9am-4pm.

TO APPLY

Complete an online application at this link. Please submit a resume and cover letter (including desired position, availability and motivation for applying). You will be contacted for a phone/virtual screening and next steps. All volunteer and internships are part-time, unpaid positions.
 
If your school requires any documentation or agreement for a volunteer or internship position, please reach out to GetInvolvedIRCSacramento@rescue.org prior to the virtual/phone screening.