Join farmers Meghan and Eric on their ranch, where you’ll learn all about sustainable ranching practices and regenerative farming. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the boreal forest, this is the perfect place for a fun and educational farming adventure.
ABOUT MITCHELL FAMILY FARMS
Mitchell Family Farms is located near Livelong, Saskatchewan – Treaty 6 Territory
Mitchell Family Farms, located at Turtle Lake, Saskatchewan, is a regenerative cattle farm with a deep commitment to sustainable farming practices. Initially founded by four brothers who started a swathing business, the farm has evolved over the years, expanding into grain farming and, about seven years ago, adding cattle to their operations. Today, they raise around 150 pairs of commercial cattle, with their cows calving out on grass from May to July.
In addition to raising cattle, Mitchell Family Farms finishes a percentage of their steers for direct marketing as beef, which they sell to local consumers. Their focus on regenerative agriculture means they are passionate about not only raising cattle humanely but also improving the health of their land and soil.
Website: www.mitchellfamilyfarms.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mitchellfamily.farms/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mitchellfamily.farms/
About the apprenticeship:
An apprentice would have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of the farm. Activities would include rotational grazing, fencing, moving cattle, working with a variety of farm equipment, and the opportunity to learn direct farm marketing. Ideally the apprentice would like working around calving. Meghan and Eric are well-practiced and are excited to share their skills and knowledge with those who are passionate about cattle and learning regenerative farming.
As part of the apprenticeship, you will meet with other apprentices across Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, British Columbia who are part of the Young Agrarians Apprenticeship program. Field days, learning opportunities, and potlucks will be planned with the Saskatchewan group at each host’s farm. You will also be invited to attend a regenerative or organic food conference during or following the apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship would ideally start in May and go into fall. There is an opportunity to continue to work year round.
About the farm mentors:
Meghan grew up in the city with a heart for country life, she moved to Saskatchewan in 2015 after meeting Eric and fully embraced farming. She always loved animals and was very thrilled to have the opportunity to purchase her first speckle park heifers in 2017. Along with the cattle she also raises chickens, goats and a kunekune pig.
Eric was born and raised at Turtle Lake, Saskatchewan and has always had a love for farming. He grew up working on his family golf course and was always willing to help out the neighbours with any farm help they needed. He is very knowledgeable about all types of equipment and cares a lot about how his herd is being taken care of. His biggest strength is that he’s continually wanting to learn on how to improve the land and how to substainably raise the cattle.
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 these skills they want to develop through a learning plan with the host farm.
| Operating farm equipment | Working with cattle |
|---|---|
| fencing | rotational grazing |
| pigs and chickens | seeding and harvesting |
| Making bales | direct marketing beef |
| Welding |
Skill required of the apprentice
- A valid class 5 drivers license
- An apprentice will need their own vehicle for off-farm travel
- A Cell phone
- Work boots, or rubber (steel toed) are necessary, especially when working around cattle
- Seasonal work attire.
- Someone who is interested in cattle and organic regenerative agriculture and is keen to learn and immerse themselves in the farm experience and learn as much as possible during the apprenticeship.
- Opportunities to work in cattle and grain.
Housing, Wage, and Duration
- Wage is 15$ -18$ an hour based on experience
- Housing will be provided on site with a trailer. The trailer is equipped with running water, a bathroom, fridge, stove, and microwave.
- Internet will be available on site in the house
- The apprentice will have access to laundry facilities
- Meals will be a mix of providing your own and eating with the family.
- Weekends are off except for the exception during the busy season. There will be overtime and time given off after.
- Perks – Golfing at Blueberry Farm Golf Course – 18 holes
About the Community and Land
Mitchell Family Farms is situated in Treaty 6 territory in northern Saskatchewan near Turtle Lake Provincial Park. The community is a robust local tourist destination in the summer. Turtle Lake has hiking, nature trails, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing and golf. Turtle Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities where you can fish for walleye, pike, perch, and whitefish.
There are 9 different communities located around Turtle Lake offering a variety of services. Convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, campgrounds, golfing, there is even new Co-op that has opened up recently.
More Details about this Apprenticeship and How to Apply
Deadline to apply – January 31, 2025
Contact Saskatchewan Apprenticeship Coordinator with questions:
saskatchewan@youngagrarians.org
Interested in an Apprenticeship but this isn’t quite the right one? Check out other Young Agrarians Alberta Apprenticeships being offered in 2025 here.