Are you an aspiring farmer or nature lover interested in regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, and environmental education? Join Ellis Nature Centre’s team and gain hands-on experience on a working farm and environmental non-profit organization!
About the Farm
Ellis Nature Centre is a non-profit organization focused on conservation, education, and regenerative agriculture. The organization manages 640 acres of land, renting pastures to a local rancher, and is home to a variety of livestock including cattle, goats, chickens, and bees. The farm is dedicated to implementing regenerative grazing practices and serves as a demonstration farm for sustainable farming methods.
The farm provides a diverse array of activities and experiences, from managing pastures and conducting biological research to engaging with the public through workshops and educational programs. Ellis Nature Centre operates its farm alongside environmental conservation efforts, with visitor facilities, wildlife habitats, and community engagement opportunities.
Be sure to check out the Ellis Nature Centre on Facebook, Insta, and the world wide web!
About the Apprenticeship
As an apprentice at Ellis Nature Centre, you’ll play a key role in supporting the farm’s operations while gaining practical experience in regenerative farming, livestock care, and environmental education. This apprenticeship runs for 16 weeks from May 1 to August 30 and involves a wide range of tasks, including:
- Assist with the adaptive multi-paddock grazing project, including moving cattle and assessing field conditions.
- Provide care for other livestock including goats, laying hens, and bees.
- Set up electric fences and water systems.
- Farm maintenance, including fence repair.
- Assist with community and school vegetable gardens.
- Collect data related to grazing projects, farm activities, and environmental factors.
- Inventory weeds and manually remove them.
- Participate in farm maintenance and installation of water lines, fencing, and equipment.
- Operate hand tools, power tools, and equipment such as tractors, mowers, and post-pounders.
- Assist with the delivery of educational programs and visitor site maintenance.
You will work with our Farm Team which includes the farm tenant, site foreman and site manager. The Nature Centre is a busy place during the summer, with other summer students focusing on the visitor center, education programs, garden work, and bird research. You will also have the opportunity to participate in festival days, events, youth programs, and workshops hosted by Ellis Nature Centre, engaging with over 18,000 visitors throughout the season.
About the farm mentors
Carolyn Ross has been Site Manager since 2022, bringing her experience with riparian and grazing stewardship from Cows and Fish and her background as a biologist to her role. She is passionate about connecting people and youth with nature and agriculture food production.
Charlie Ball is the Site Foreman and since 2022 has taken a lead role in the AMP grazing practices on site, designing and implementing the electric fencing, water pipeline and pasture management.
Victor Zuidhof is the local farm tenant and operates a mixed farm operation. He has been actively involved with the farm plans at Ellis Nature Centre for cow/calf summer grazing, permanent forage crops, fall cover crops and a new winter grazing project started in 2024/2025.
Ellis Nature Centre partners with ALUS and Central Alberta Forage and Livestock Association to work towards building pasture health, biodiversity and ecosystem services in our operations.
Skills this farm has to teach:
The following skills are being offered by this farm. While you’ll get exposure to many of these areas, it is likely that not all will be covered. Apprentices will work to identify the skills they want to develop and implement a learning plan with the host farm.
- Regenerative Grazing Practices (Adaptive Multi-Paddock Grazing)
- Livestock Care (Cattle, Goats, Chickens, Bees)
- Field Management (Weed Control, Pasture Monitoring, Soil and Forage Sampling)
- Farm Equipment Operation (Tractors, Mowers, Post Pounders)
- Environmental Education (Visitor Engagement, Data Collection, Educational Program Delivery)
- Regenerative Agricultural Practices (Watering Systems, Fencing, Equipment Installation)
- Biodiversity (Monitoring Plants, Microfauna, and Wildlife)
Housing, Wages, and Duration
- Start/End Date: May 1 – August 30 (16 weeks)
- Wage: $17.50 – $19.50/hour, depending on experience.
- Work Schedule: 35 hours/week, with weekends off (subject to events).
- Accommodation: No accommodation is provided. The farm is located 15 minutes from Blackfalds, Lacombe, and 30 minutes from Red Deer, so there is potential for carpooling with other staff or students in the area.
Apprentice Requirements
Ellis Nature Centre is looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual who is passionate about regenerative agriculture and nature. Key qualities include:
- Experience working with cattle, livestock, or farm equipment.
- Experience with irrigation and water pumps.
- Interest in environmental education and regenerative agriculture.
- Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
- Good communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Problem solving abilities.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and operate farm equipment safely.
- A valid driver’s license is an asset.
About the Community
Ellis Nature Centre is located in a vibrant farming and agricultural area. Located 15 minutes from Blackfalds and Lacombe, and 30 minutes from Red Deer, the farm is part of a rich agricultural and community-focused area, offering easy access to various local amenities and events. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and those interested in learning about sustainable farming practices.
The farm is also part of a broader community of farmers, ranchers, and environmental advocates, offering a unique opportunity for networking and collaboration.
To Apply
If you’re eager to learn more about cattle, rotational grazing, biodiversity, and environmental education, this is the perfect apprenticeship for you! Please click the link below for more information on the apprentice program and to apply.
More Details about this Apprenticeship and How to Apply
Application due: January 31, 2025.
Interested in an Apprenticeship but this isn’t quite the right one? Check out other Young Agrarians Alberta Apprenticeships being offered in 2025 here.