Are you passionate about regenerative agriculture, livestock care, and land stewardship? Hart Ranches in Hanna, Alberta, is offering a unique apprenticeship where you can gain hands-on experience on a 7,000-acre ranch while working alongside skilled mentors.
About the Farm
Hart Ranches is focused on regenerative ranching and conservation. Mike and Laura Hart, the ranch owners, are committed to healing their land, which was severely impacted by the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. They are active members of the Chinook Applied Research Association (CARA), participating in workshops on topics like drought mitigation, soil health, and shelterbelt development.
Their diversified operations include:
- Beef cattle raised for auction.
- Goats, whose role is to graze on buckbrush and prepare the land for reseeding with grasses.
- Hay fields for feed.
- A new greenhouse and strawberry house, with plans to expand a drip irrigation system to combat drought conditions.
Hart Ranches also prioritizes wildlife conservation, partnering with organizations like the Nature Conservancy of Canada and Alberta Native Bee Council. Their approach balances respect for nature with regenerative practices, ensuring long-term health for both the land and ecosystems.
Be sure to check out Hart Ranches on the world wide web!
About the Apprenticeship
Apprentices at Hart Ranches will have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of regenerative ranching, livestock care, and land management. The apprenticeship focuses on practical skills and conservation-oriented approaches, including:
- Cattle and goat care: grazing management, feeding, and market preparation.
- Soil and water conservation: shelterbelt planting, soil reclamation, and drought mitigation techniques.
- Greenhouse management: growing vegetables and strawberries using sustainable irrigation.
About the Farm Mentors:
Mike and Laura Hart are passionate conservationists and experienced ranch managers who are deeply invested in teaching and mentoring. Their leadership is guided by collaboration, regenerative practices, and a commitment to sharing knowledge.
- Mike Hart has spent his whole life ranching, and serves as the Ranch Manager, overseeing cattle, goats, hayfields, and land management. Mike’s hands-on approach includes teaching staff practical ranching skills and sharing his deep passion for the land through guided “safari-style” tours.
- Laura Hart focuses on recruitment, onboarding, and managing staff accommodations. Her expertise includes animal care, calf feeding, and staff mentoring. Known as a skilled networker, Laura connects people and resources, fostering a strong community of collaboration and support.
Together, Mike and Laura ensure that apprentices will not only develop valuable skills but also feel supported and encouraged in their learning journey. Their complementary strengths create a dynamic and inclusive environment where apprentices can thrive.
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 through a learning plan with the host farm.
| MULTI-SPECIES GRAZING | ELECTRIC FENCES |
|---|---|
| gETTING ANIMALS TO MARKET | CROP PLANNING & ROTATIONS |
| HERDING | PREPARING SEEDBEDS |
| MAKING HOLISTIC GRAZING PLAN | POST-HARVEST HANDLING |
| ORGANIC STANDARDS FOR LIVESTOCK | IDENTIFYING BENEFICIAL INSECTS & PESTS |
| ASSESSING FORAGE QUALITY | SEEDING & TRANSPLANTING |
| SAFETY AROUND ANIMALS | tRUCK & TRACTOR OPERATION |
Housing, Wages, and Duration
Housing is off-farm, with several flexible options:
- Hanna: A shared two-bedroom house with one owner living onsite. Apprentices have their own bedroom, bathroom, and fridge. Rent is $200/month, including utilities, Wi-Fi, and more.
- Youngstown: A suite 30 minutes from the ranch, ideal for one or a couple. Rent is $200/month, with the remainder covered by the ranch.
There are other possible housing options available, depending on each apprentice. All accommodations include utilities and Wi-Fi. Smoking is prohibited indoors, and no pets are allowed.
Apprentices are responsible for their own meals but may occasionally share meals during branding or events.
Wage: $15–$25/hour, depending on skill set and experience.
Duration: Flexible, with a start date as early as mid-March. Apprenticeships begin with a trial period, followed by a discussion to determine the length of stay.
Apprentice Requirements
The ideal apprentice for Hart Ranches is:
- Physically Fit and Motivated: Ranch work is demanding and requires stamina, adaptability, and a willingness to work in all weather conditions.
- Keen to Learn: Previous farming or ranching experience is not required, but curiosity and a strong desire to learn are essential.
- Team-Oriented: Apprentices will work alongside mentors, staff, and community members. Effective communication and collaboration are key.
- Open to Feedback: Apprentices must be willing to receive and apply feedback to grow their skills.
- Proactive and Independent: While guidance is provided, apprentices are expected to take initiative and manage tasks responsibly.
- Driver’s License Required: A valid driver’s license is necessary for commuting and operating farm equipment.
- Willing to Commit to a Trial Period: All apprenticeships begin with a trial period to ensure a mutual fit.
Preferred Skills (but not required):
- Experience with livestock or gardening.
- Familiarity with tools and machinery, such as tractors, hand tools, or fencing equipment.
- Basic knowledge of sustainable farming or interest in conservation.
- Construction skills would be a plus, as there are building projects planned.
About the Community
Hanna, Alberta, is a welcoming town with full amenities and a close-knit rural community. The ranch is near rivers and scenic areas perfect for outdoor activities.
Hanna Centennial Place – A fantastic gym, walking trail, weight room, Plus a variety of programs in spaces throughout the facility
Hosts Thursday night, Hanna Community Band, all are welcome, bring your instruments to join in to this band, public performances in Hanna throughout the year.
Events in Hanna, Many music events through Front Row Centre. Hanna is known for the band Nickelback.
Every Sunday, from July to August: Music in the Park. Musicians come to Hanna to share their talent
Prairie Oasis Park & Beach, a beautiful place, only 40 minutes from the ranch, great for a swim, nice grated sandy beach, picnic and paddling.
Movies. Is 1 hour 15 minute travel time from the ranch. We usually go for a bite to eat, keeping room for popcorn at the theatre. Always a good time.
Blood Indian Campground / Park – riding our bikes around the lake, paddling a canoe or kayak, barbeque with friends.
Mike and Laura are experienced paddlers in Kayak and Canoe. Members of Bow Waters Canoe Club in Calgary. Many club trips are near us on the Red Deer and Rosebud Rivers.
Favorite hiking/snowshoeing is Wayne Alberta
Rosebud Theatre is an annual treat. Especially with the grand dinner prior to the show.
More Details about this Apprenticeship and How to Apply
Application due: February 16, 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.