A Volunteer "Crop Master" will work alongside the National Colonial Farm manager to help maintain the Virginia Gourdseed corn field and the Kitchen Garden. The cornfield is a demonstration space for 18th century agricultural practices and the Kitchen Garden is a small scale version of the garden that would have sustained a lower "middling" farming family in Southern Maryland throughout the year. The position will be instrumental in helping to preserve the seeds of our Virginia Gourdseed corn and other heirloom vegetable varities while sustaining the history and resources of Piscataway Park.
Description of Duties:
- For corn field: A Volunteer "Crop Master" will assist the farm manager in the general maintenance of the crop and field through tasks such as: making hills, planting, tending, watering, and weeding. A "Crop Master" will assist with the harvesting in the fall and preparing the fields for winter through techniques such as cover cropping. Post harvest, they will assist in drying the corn then sorting and saving the seeds.
- In the Kitchen Garden: A Volunteer "Crop Master" will assist the farm manager in the general maintenance of the garden through tasks such as planting, weeding, harvesting, watering, pruning the fruit trees, and saving for seed.
- A Volunteer "Crop Master" may also be asked to participate in National Colonial Farm events by working in period clothing and demonstrating 18th century farming techniques to visitors.
No previous experience is necessary, just a love of history, people, and working outdoors. Opportunities exist for all skill levels. All agricultural and historical interests are encouraged and welcome.
Schedules are flexible.
