The summer is in full swing for apprentices in the Young Agrarians Apprenticeship Program, who are busy learning about regenerative agriculture on farms across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Curious about their experiences in the Apprenticeship Program? Read on to hear from one of our apprentices, and check out our other Notes from the Field blogs!
Meet Kate McCauley – originally from Ontario, she moved out west this summer to learn more about agriculture from Emily Harris and Tyler Browne, owners of The Plot Market Garden (The Plot). The Plot is a 2-acre mixed vegetable farm that has been in operation for 6 years and is located on two different parcels on W̱SÁNEĆ territory (Saanich). They grow a variety of vegetables, supplying the community through a CSA program and to local restaurants, cafes and grocery stores.
We asked Kate how her apprenticeship is going and here’s what she had to say:
Working as an apprentice for The Plot Market Garden this summer has been one of the most rewarding and eye-opening job experiences I have ever had. I am in awe of the land, community, and success that owners Emily Harris and Tyler Browne have cultivated at The Plot.
I was first drawn to The Plot for its small-scale and regenerative management practice that center on the sustainability and longevity of the farm ecosystem. As an apprentice, I witnessed the success and effectiveness of these practices and their impact on both the land and the community. Much of my learning came from the large diversity of vegetables and greens grown at The Plot. This offered opportunities to understand many different crop growing requirements, lifecycles, and diseases and to connect with the plants from seed to harvest.
Every day on the farm was different, often consisting of many different fieldwork and product processing tasks, keeping the days interesting and fast-paced. Our workdays were always rewarded with fresh, delicious harvests and opportunities to try new recipes. The hardworking, passionate, and supportive team environment at The Plot was integral to my positive experience as an apprentice. I am very grateful for the warm and welcoming culture fostered by Emily and Tyler and their lovely dog Yogi.
Being part of the farm-to-table process at The Plot truly instilled a deep appreciation for the land and the importance of quality food. I have found so much joy in learning from, witnessing, and sharing in the love embodied by Emily and Tyler for farming at The Plot. I am leaving my apprenticeship completely inspired and with so much gratitude.
If you are interested in the Young Agrarians Apprenticeship Program in British Columbia, please visit our program website or email sasha@youngagrarians.org.
Other Resources
- If you are an experienced farmer interested in hosting an apprentice, learn how to become a host farm mentor in our Apprenticeship Program
- New to farming? Check out our How to Start Farming course
Photos and write-up by Kate McCauley