How does an artist in New York City end up as an apprentice on a farm in Arkansas? For Emilia, it began with inspiration from her grandfather’s backyard garden. Later, a friend who stayed at an intentional community inspired her to pursue a desire to get back to what she considered the “source’ of life and have a closer relationship with soil and food. She wanted to provide nourishment for herself and others.
Emilia wanted to learn to farm but had no opportunities for entry until she found the Farm Apprenticeship Program at the Center for Arkansas Farms and Food. A placement with Cobblestone Farm in Fayetteville was a good match. The farm is dedicated to hunger relief and uses sustainable, regenerative practices to grow produce and raise livestock. A substantial portion of each harvest is donated charitably.
Emilia loves planting and harvesting. She thinks it’s interesting how each vegetable has a different relationship with time and weather. Continuing to learn is Emilia’s top priority in farming right now. Someday she would love to own a farm with friends and share the experience of growing nourishing, healthy food together. She hopes that in the future, everyone can be involved in the production of their food.
When asked what advice she could offer other aspiring farmers, Emilia suggests actively seeking out learning opportunities through programs like CAFF. “You don’t know what type of farming you would like to do until you try something,” she says. “Just get involved wherever you can.”
Emilia took a giant leap away from life as she knew it. After hearing her thoughts on farming, it’s apparent that it was a step in the right direction for her life goals.
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