Experience life on a working farm …

Our farm is located 50 miles south of Buffalo outside a rural town called Otto. On our farm we strive to grow vibrant food and improve our 180 acres for future generations.  We grow vegetables on about 12 of those. We grow a diversified mix of ecologically grown vegetables which we sell through our 150 member CSA, a local farmers market and some local businesses. We specialize in greens and work closely with local, organic growers to supplement our CSA with things that we don’t or cannot grow like sweet corn and green beans. Our CSA provides our members with a 7-month mixed ecologically grown vegetable share and a seasonal locally grown fruit share. We raise and sell grass fed-finished beef to utilize the pasture land that we have. We have two distribution points for members to pick up their shares: in Buffalo and the farm.

We are a short drive to Zoar Valley (hiking, kayaking, swimming), Alleghany state park (hiking, camping, swimming) and to the town of Ellicottville which has ample opportunities for dining out and sampling local music.

Background/Vision

We, Stewart and Deb Ritchie, have operated Native Offerings Farm since 1997.  As we near retirement age we want to facilitate knowledge transfer and inspire new farmers. Farming is an important part of our heritage. Ecological farming honors how we are stewards of the earth preserving productive land for future generations. Volunteers can see what it takes to produce food on our farm. Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and to meet new people while learning new skills.

Opportunities

This opportunity is available for two individuals or a couple.  Rustic Yurt, Camping and RV space available. The successful candidates will be a self-motivated problem solvers, reliable and dependable, and enjoy working either solo or as a member of a team, enjoy physical labor and working outdoors.  Minimum stay 1 week.

Time Periods and Location of work

Otto, NY (one hour south of Buffalo NY): June to October.

What you can expect to be doing

You’ll be starting seeds, planting crops, weeding, harvesting and packing vegetables.  Of course, there will many other farm tasks to get involved in such as-greenhouse maintenance, building projects and organizational tasks.

Work Schedule

Generally, you will be working 7:00am to noon or until the task at hand is completed.  The rest of the day can be spent in self study or working on a farm project that interests you.  Farm work is Monday through Friday.  We sell at the Elmwood Bidwell farmers market on Saturday from May through November in NY.  (The market day begins at 4:30 or 5:30am and ends about 3:30pm.).

Requirements for placement

  • Health Insurance.
  • Passport or Enhanced Driver’s License
  • A desire to work and learn

What to bring if accepted

  • A positive attitude
  • Bedding
  • Work clothes, gloves and boots/shoes
  • Rubber boots
  • Rain gear
  • Sun hat

Please contact Stewart Ritchie for more information. farmerstew@gmail.com