Starting with wildlife
As a high school student, I began working for the Colorado Division of Wildlife at the Foothills Wildlife Research Facility in Ft. Collins, CO. Through this position I participated in a variety of research projects and cared for captive pronghorn, deer, elk and bighorn sheep. I enjoyed working with the animals (especially bottle-feeding the neonates) and science I was exposed to. I was able to not only see science in action but also participate in it, a rare experience for a high school student. While I participated in a variety of projects, the majority were focused on the detection and transmission of Chronic Wasting Disease in deer and elk. After several years of working for the Division of Wildlife, I graduated from high school and turned my attention towards agriculture and environmental science.
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Moving on to sustainable agriculture
In 1999 I moved to Washington state and became an apprentice at the Cascadian Farm Home Farm. This apprenticeship included all aspects of organic vegetable and berry production including: planning, cultivating, innovative composting methods, post harvest handling, managing work crews, and sales. The Home Farm is an independently operated farm that is affiliated with the Cascadian Farm Corporation. Through exposure to the larger corporation, I was also able to learn about the “big business” side of organic agriculture.
Beginning in the spring of 2000, I spent four years working for Kirsop Farm in Olympia Washington. Kirsop Farm is a Certified Organic farm that specializes in local farmers markets and a strong CSA program, making them a staple of the Olympia community. Kirsop is known for their commitment to high quality produce, sustainability, and community involvement. As an Assistant Farm Manager, I worked with the owners to oversee all aspects of farm operations including farm planning, planting, cultivating, harvesting, and sales. Additionally, I trained and led work crews, volunteers, and college interns. My experience at Kirsop provided me with hands-on farming experience, solidified my commitment to sustainable food systems, and fed my desire to pursue a career in soil science. |