Paul was idealistic about farming, initially interested in plants and ecology. He also strongly desired to be a “producer” in the world, rather than a “consumer”. Sustainable agriculture offered a pathway to pursue both of these interests.
Paul applied for an apprenticeship through CAFF and has just completed his second year at Dripping Springs Garden. “The first year, I came in with this idealism, thinking that I would quickly learn everything I needed to know,” he chuckles, “It turns out, there’s a lot to know.”
Paul was surprised at how many hats a farmer must wear and the variety of skills needed on any given day. They must be a marketer, business manager, mechanic, and more. He admits to feeling a bit overwhelmed with this realization initially. He had read some books coming into his first year and had some knowledge but there are so many unpredictable variables each day in farming. “There are things you can read about in books but just won’t understand until you experience them and do it yourself,” he says. It was the proverbial “baptism by fire” to learn on a working farm where food is grown for profit and to eat. Tasks must be accomplished quickly and efficiently. It’s a different pace from gardening.
Paul got comfortable with the fact that the only way to learn it all, is a little bit at a time. Year one was a challenge, more so than expected but rewarding. He says the CAFF Beginning Farmer Classes helped him navigate those years. He especially loved the farm tours that are part of the program and was very interested to see how each farm is unique and does things their best-developed way. The farmers explored different methods to find what worked for them. By the second year, he began to feel more competent and confident. That’s when all of the possibilities of his new skill set began to click.
Paul’s favorite thing about being an apprentice is the work environment. “I love being outside every day and being in nature.” Working as part of a team is enjoyable as well. Touring different farms has shown him how important it is to learn all you can and then set your farm up in a way that fits your life, so you don’t burn out. It’s important to Paul that if he does start a farm someday he is fully invested in it and committed to the work required to build an efficient farm.
Although he would love to own a farm someday, there is no rush. Traveling is one of Paul’s beloved activities, and that can be challenging for farm owners. He has a degree in computer science which was put on hold to pursue farming. He also likes the idea of teaching others about farming.
When asked what advice he has for others interested in farming, Paul suggests volunteering at local farms. ‘It’s much easier when you don’t come into a full program as idealistically as I did. Volunteering gives you a chance to experience farming first to know if it’s right for you.”
One thing that hasn’t changed for Paul during his apprenticeship years is his continued interest in plants, ecology, and producing something valuable for the world. Being a farmer has matured his idealism into a realistic understanding and appreciation of what it truly requires to farm and produce food for us all to eat.
The children of Fayetteville will soon benefit from what Paul has learned as he transitions from apprentice to Farm Manager. He’ll assume that role at Apple Seeds Teaching Farm, an inspirational, non-profit farm teaching children about nutrition, gardening, and healthy living through interactive field trips and hands-on experiences.
CAFF had farm apprenticeship opportunities available, apply at UAFarmApprentice.org
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