Education

Bloomfield Farm Internship

Description

The Bloomfield Farm Horticulture Intern receives hands-on training in all phases of garden development and care of the living collection, especially those plants located on the 65-acre Bloomfield Farm property. Bloomfield Farm is a largely naturalistic landscape that includes several cultivated garden areas, research plots, community gardens, and the Arboretum’s composting site. Specific emphasis is placed on refining practical horticultural skills. Supervisory skills are developed by directing the activities of volunteers and part-time staff. Other activities include developing integrated pest management (IPM) skills, arboriculture techniques, and the operation and maintenance of garden machinery. Special projects will be assigned to develop individual skills in garden planning and management.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Learn practical nursery digging concepts, proper planting techniques and turf care basics
• Learn to properly identify weeds and implement control methods
• Demonstrate pruning skills using CODIT philosophy and assist in formative pruning of the Arboretum's plant collection
• Demonstrate knowledge of proper pesticide use--handling, mixing, applying and clean up of pesticide equipment
• Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule
• Participate in the Horticulture Department's project days once a month
• Help with snow removal
• Learn to operate the following garden machinery:
  • Small Equipment Operation- push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, snow thrower
  • Large Equipment Operation- golf cart, riding mower, backhoe, tractor, dump truck.
  • Arborist Equipment Operation - chainsaw, chipper.
• Complete an independent study project under the direction of your supervisor
• Work one afternoon in the Arboretum's Plant Clinic per week
• Participate in intern core curriculum sessions as scheduled
• Perform additional duties as requested

Qualifications/Requirements

• A strong academic background in horticulture, environmental studies or closely related field
• A strong academic background in horticulture, environmental studies or closely related field
• Be able and willing to communicate with Arboretum visitors
• Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team
• Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions
• Be able and willing to lift at least 25 lbs
• A valid driver's license is required

Work Environment

The Bloomfield Farm Horticulture Internship is a hands-on program that assists in the care of maintenance of the Arboretum's extensive collection of accessioned plants. Year-round outdoor work is required. Spring through Fall, priorities include planting, mowing, weed control, watering, and protection of new plantings from deer. Winter tasks include pruning, brush clearing, meadow mowing, snow removal, and completion of an individual internship project.