Edible Stories Market Garden Apprenticeship
Last Updated On: April 14th, 2026 at 11:25AM MST
Contact information
Farm Address:13652 NW Logie Trail
Hillsboro, Oregon, 97124
Primary Contact: Lakshmi Tata
Primary Phone:
Type: Cell
Number: 217-766-5363
Email: ediblestories.marketgarden@gmail.com
Website: https://www.oregonfarmcorps.org/host-farms/edible-stories
Internship information
General Farm Description: Edible Stories Market Garden nestled in the scenic Helvetia area of Hillsboro, Oregon, is just five miles from Highway 26. Our growing space spans approximately one-third of an acre, with all cultivation taking place inside six high tunnels. We also have a greenhouse dedicated to seed starting and transplant production. The terraced garden sits on a gentle slope—hence the name ‘Edible Stories’ - a reflection of both the land’s contour and the many stories created and evoked by each crop we grow, harvest, and share. The garden is part of a five-acre property bordered by an undisturbed expanse of Douglas fir, maple, western cedar, and ferns, which enrich the garden landscape both visually and biologically. At Edible Stories Market Garden, we employ organic growing practices—using no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, and relying on compost and natural soil amendments. We also minimize tillage to nurture soil health and biodiversity, rely on drip irrigation to conserve water, and maintain pollinator habitats to support a thriving community of beneficial insects. Our work is primarily done by hand—using hand tools for seeding, transplanting, weeding, bed preparation, and harvesting—to ensure care and attention in every step. We cultivate a diverse range of vegetables, with a special emphasis on crops that hold cultural significance to the Asian community. Using high tunnels allows us to extend our growing season and create ideal microclimates for these specialty crops. Growing them year after year is our way of celebrating our Asian heritage while contributing to the cultural diversity of locally grown produce in the Portland metro area. Our growing season extends from March through November. We sell directly to our customers using a pay-as-you-go CSA model. We also sell our produce at local Indian grocery stores and to select Portland restaurants.CRAFT Member Farm? No
Internship Starts: March
Internship Ends: November
Number of Internship Available: 1
Application Deadline: 3/15/2026
Minimum Length of Stay: 500 training hours/1 season
Internship Details:
The apprentice will participate in all stages of vegetable production, from seed starting to harvest and post-harvest handling. Responsibilities will include starting seeds in the greenhouse or directly in the ground, preparing and amending garden beds, applying compost, managing weeds in beds and pathways, operating the drip irrigation system, transplanting seedlings, harvesting, and packing produce for sale. All tasks will be demonstrated, and the apprentice will receive ongoing mentorship and guidance to develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of small-scale vegetable production
Our growing season begins in early March 2026, and we are seeking an apprentice to work an average of 20 hours (hours can fluctuate between 15-25 hours per week over the course of the season) extending through mid-November 2026. The apprentice will receive a 10-minute paid break every 1 hour and a one-hour unpaid lunch break each day. The work is physically demanding, and applicants should be prepared for tasks such as moving and spreading compost, as well as standing, bending, and squatting for extended periods.
The apprentice will begin by working alongside us as we demonstrate each task. They are welcome to ask questions during the work or afterward. We will check in and meet as often as needed to provide the apprentice with the required guidance and support.
Educational Opportunities: An Apprenticeship at Edible Stories Market Garden is part of Oregon Farm Corps' beginning farmer training program. Hands-on field training at the Host Farm is complemented by a series of classes, farm tours, discussions, and networking events organized by Oregon Farm Corps. EDUCATIONAL EVENTS Apprentices join other beginning farmers for an Educational Event Series facilitated by Oregon Farm Corps. The full event series includes: *Online classes and discussions focused on foundational sustainable agriculture concepts, skills, and the food system, with topics including Decolonizing Agriculture, Soil Health, Farmworker Justice and Disease Management. *7-11 in-person farm tours which showcase practical skills and individual farmers’ stories and provide insight into diverse production and marketing systems. OFC strives to make all educational events inclusive and welcoming to people from all backgrounds and identities. Classes, tours, and discussions are led by Oregon Farm Corps staff, agricultural professionals, and expert farmworkers/farmers. For more information on these events, please visit our event series page and 2026 class schedule outline: https://www.oregonfarmcorps.org/event-series
Skills Desired: We are seeking an apprentice who is reliable, eager to learn about growing food and small-scale farming, with an interest in various plants and a keen attention to detail. The work is physically demanding, requiring the ability to stand, kneel, squat, and bend for extended periods. All tasks take place in high tunnels, which can become very hot during the summer, so the apprentice should be able to work safely in warmer conditions while taking reasonable breaks. Safety and appropriate attire are essential: close-toed shoes must be worn at all times, and the apprentice should dress suitably for farm work. We encourage apprentices to adjust their work hours based on the season and weather, such as starting earlier on hot days. We value a respectful and professional work environment. Employees are expected to treat team members courteously, remain sober while on the farm, and refrain from smoking or using drugs during work hours. Apprentices are also responsible for taking care of tools and returning them to their proper places. While much of the work may be independent, employees are welcome to bring a radio or music to listen to while working. Previous gardening or horticulture experience is a plus, but a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic are most important.
Meals: Meals are not provided but the apprentice can take home a reasonable amount of produce for personal consumption
Stipend: Apprentices are waged employees of the farm and we offer $17/hour as compensation.
Housing: We do not offer on-farm housing, but there are many rental options in Hillsboro and nearby towns such as Forest Grove, Cornelious, and Beaverton.
Preferred method of Contact: email