There are a few projects we’ll be undertaking in the early season that we would love a hand with if you’re interested and available:
1) WINTER PRUNING – We’ve been very fortunate in the last few years to have some exceptional orchardists help us with our heritage apple trees, but personal schedules and health issues require us to find someone new who can help us out. There are approx 50 semi-dwarf heritage apple trees on site that are in need of winter pruning. If you know someone who might be able to help us out in the next few weeks, please have them get in touch.
Time Commitment: As long as it takes, likely one day.
2) HERITAGE GARDENS – This year, we’re making some significant changes to our heritage gardens, both ornamental and vegetable, as we renew our focus on collecting and preserving rare and unusual heritage varieties. To that end, we could use some help in the greenhouse, with research and in the dirt. Help us by learning more about this special varieties, by tend them and assisting us in preparing several new garden beds on site. No experience is required, but enthusiasm is appreciated!
Time Commitment: Will vary significantly depending on the volunteer and their tasks, but some tasks can begin immediately.
3) Heritage Demonstrations – For summer 2022, the site’s volunteer group has committed to providing demonstrations of heritage cooking and craft skills in the summer kitchen. Volunteers will be dressed in authentic heritage costuming as they bake cookies, dip beeswax candles, dye fabric and more on our wood stove. Training and camaraderie provided–volunteers are usually paired together on their shifts.
Time Commitment: minimum commitment is at least one 5 hour shift every two weeks.
We’re also always accepting volunteers for special behind-the-scenes work doing research, organizing events and activities, supporting school fieldtrip visits and much more. If you have a special skill you’d like to offer, let us know!
If you’re available to lend a hand in any of these ways, please get in touch with us at 250-499-2888 or info@oldgristmill.ca.
Thank you for your incredible support!