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Are you an aspiring ecological farmer who wants hands on experience working the land and living in community? Mark & Tracy Vetsch Farms in Valleyview, Alberta might be the place for you!
About the Farm
This mixed organic cattle and grain operation places cattle at its center—from cow-calf management through to grass finishing. The farm is committed to producing high-quality organic, grass-fed beef while stewarding the land through management-intensive grazing and regenerative practices. Grain production complements the livestock system, supporting soil health and overall fertility.
Mark and Tracy value being on the land, learning from natural systems, raising nutritious food profitably, and teaching their children to appreciate these principles.
Our Workplace Culture
This is a family-based operation. The apprentice will work alongside one seasonal employee, as well as four of the farmers’ children (ages 8–17) who work regularly on the farm. Apprentices become part of this team, contributing in a supportive, hands-on environment that emphasizes curiosity, stewardship, and a strong work ethic.
About the Farmers
Mark grew up nearby on a farm and developed a lifelong passion for agriculture. After farming with his parents and brother for 20 years, he and Tracy transitioned into Certified Organic agriculture in 2013. Together, they continue to grow a resilient, regenerative farm system grounded in learning, stewardship, and community.
About the Apprenticeship
The apprentice will work directly alongside Mark, who will provide guidance, instruction, and support. This role offers immersion in all aspects of livestock and land management, with ample opportunities to ask questions and develop confidence.
You will learning all aspects of livestock management, from herd health to handling and understanding flow of fertility and nutrition and how all things interact. You will learn the basics of growing crops and perennials.
Pasture checking (via ATV), herd monitoring and construction and moving of portable electric fences. Learning solar/portable Watering systems setup and maintenance,
-construction/ renovation of structures
-mechanical maintenance, housekeeping and cleanup of work areas
-equipment operating
Summer is peak season, from calving and seeding in the spring, constant pasture management, grain harvest in fall.
The ideal duration of employment is flexible, depending on availability and fit.
The job requirements are
- Must enjoy outdoor work in all kinds of weather
- Ability to manage physically demanding tasks
- Willingness to learn ATV operation
Apprentices are willing to learn these skills:
- Observing biodiversity
- Techniques to maintain living roots in the soil
- Techniques to integrate cropping & livestock
- Animal Health
- Safety around animals
- Making a holistic grazing plan
- Assessing forage quality & health of pasture
- Harvesting crops
- Crop storage / preservation
- Truck & tractor troubleshooting & maintenance
- Trailer back-up
- Carpentry basic
- Welding basic
- Record-keeping & basic bookkeeping
Compensation
We offer the wage of $15/hour, with free accommodation and one free meal per day on work days.
About the Community
The farm is located ten minutes from Valleyview, a welcoming rural community with a modern Multiplex featuring a swimming pool, gym facilities, and exercise equipment. The surrounding area includes rivers, trails, and natural spaces ideal for hiking, exploring, and canoeing.
Community activities include local dances, a community rodeo, mud bogs, tractor pulls, and various church groups, including a Christian young adults group. Grande Prairie is just over an hour away for additional amenities.
The family often spends time at a nearby river—swimming, relaxing by a fire, or taking canoe trips when weather allows.
Accommodation
Accommodations: yes
Accommodation details: We have an on-site camper available. Includes private kitchen, bathroom, and shower.
Accommodations shared with other employees/apprentices: no
Access to a full bathroom with running water: yes
Type of dwelling: Single season
Accommodation checklist:
- Furnished
- Clean
- Running water (potable)
- Private bathroom
- Shower
- Private kitchen
- Shared Laundry
- Heating
- Electricity
- Air conditioning
Pets permitted: no
Guests permitted: yes
Rent: Free
Accommodation Agreement: yes
Other information: The camper will be parked in the main yard and there will be opportunities to share some meals with the mentors and/or other employees.
We look forward to seeing you!