Overview

Interns are invited to support the Cowlitz Community Garden in advancing Cowlitz Tribal food sovereignty and addressing food insecurity among Cowlitz Tribal members and AI/AN communities by growing produce for the Produce Distribution service. The Cowlitz Community Garden is a ¾ acre production garden maintained by three staff members. A mix of annual and perennial fruits, vegetables, herbs, and traditional foods are grown in-ground, in raised beds, and under a high tunnel. 

Typical Activities 

Typical tasks may include, but are not limited to: 

Garden Areas (Gardens 1, 2, & 3) 

  • Weeding, watering, and general garden maintenance  
  • Seeding, potting, planting, and transplanting  
  • Applying compost and organic fertilizers  
  • Harvesting and post-harvest handling (washing, bundling, storing)  
  • Installing and removing row cover  

Nature Trail 

  • Weeding and spreading mulch  
  • Planting native perennial shrubs  
  • Managing invasive species  

Shop/Pole Barn 

  • Organizing tools, supplies, and materials  
  • Assisting with produce handling and storage  
  • Supporting event setup and breakdown  

Physical Demands & Work Environment 

Work may include physical activities such as shoveling, raking, bending, lifting, carrying, pushing wheelbarrows, and working in various positions (standing, sitting, squatting).  

Work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to weather conditions, dust, allergens, and uneven terrain. Volunteers may be working near tools, equipment, or machinery. 

Closed-toed shoes and appropriate attire are required. 

Safety & Equipment 

  • Interns are expected to follow all safety guidance provided by Garden staff.  
  • The Community Garden provides personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye protection, ear protection, masks, kneeling pads, and access to first aid supplies.  
  • Interns are responsible for bringing appropriate personal items such as weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and sturdy footwear.  
  • The Garden follows the CIT Adverse Weather and Air Quality Policy. A copy is available on-site. 

Interns must notify Garden staff immediately if experiencing illness or distress related to hot or cold weather conditions, or any other health or safety concern. 

Accommodations 

The Garden welcomes people of varying abilities. Interested parties are encouraged to communicate any limitations or accommodation needs with Garden staff so appropriate tasks can be assigned.

Expectations & Code of Conduct 

To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all staff, volunteers, and community members, interns agree to the following: 

  • Remain within designated Community Garden areas only (Garden 1, 2, and 3, Shop/Pole Barn, Greenhouse, and Nature Trail).  
  • Access to St. Mary’s building is limited to restroom use only. Interns must notify Garden staff prior to entering.  
  • Remain on-site only during scheduled shifts unless prior arrangements have been made with the Garden Supervisor or designee.  
  • Wear provided identification for the duration of each shift.  
  • Do not enter any residential or restricted areas, including living quarters, under any circumstances.  
  • Do not solicit meals, services, or items from staff, residents, or other interns/volunteers. (Meals through the Elders Program may be purchased when available.)  
  • Provide advance notice to Garden staff or Elders Program staff when coordinating larger intern/volunteer groups if you would like to purchase lunch.  
  • Treat all individuals with respect, professionalism, and courtesy.  
  • Promptly report any safety concerns, incidents, or emergencies to the Garden Supervisor or designee. 
  • Prohibited behaviors include: substance use on-site, harassment, discrimination, disruptive behavior, and photographing people or facilities without permission. 
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding any sensitive information encountered while interning, including resident identities, Tribal information, and internal operations. 
  • Follow all instructions provided by Garden staff and comply with posted policies and procedures.  

To apply, please contact the Garden Supervisor at garden@cowlitz.org.