FAQ (internship)

Can I start at any time of the year?

Our internship program is ongoing. We usually have only one intern at any given time, and at certain times of year we cannot accommodate any interns. If you feel this program is right for you, it is best to apply well in advance of your desired time period to ensure that there is an opening for you.

Are there any fees?

There is a $250 reservation fee to be paid in advance in order to hold your place. Once your place is reserved, cancellations up to 60 days before your internship start date and receive a refund minus a $100 cancellation fee. For cancellations within 60 days of your internship start date, there is no reservation fee refund. Upon successful completion of the internship, the $250 reservation fee is refunded. Interns cover the costs of their food (aside from what is available from our farm), personal items, and all travel costs to/from Kona. There is no cost for staying on our farm during your internship.

Is this program only for U.S. citizens and permanent residents?

We welcome program participants from anywhere in the world. However, upon arrival you must show us your legal U.S. immigration documentation valid for the entire 8-week period of your internship.

Who will supervise me?

You will work closely with Craig Elevitch, Director of Agroforestry Net, a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to education and research in agroforestry and ecological resource management. The organization's internationally recognized publications have guided thousands of readers in becoming more proficient in ecological food production, agroforestry, and reforestation. Craig edits The Overstory E-journal, a monthly agroforestry journal with 8,700 subscribers in over 185 countries. He has coordinated numerous workshops and field days for Pacific island agroforestry, with over 3,000 farmers and resource professionals participating since 1993. Craig completed the permaculture certified basic and advanced training taught by Max Lindegger and Lea Harrison in 1990-91, and has authored many agroforestry books as well as over 75 permaculture and forest stewardship management plans throughout Hawai'i. You can expect an hour or two a day working and/or meeting with Craig.

How much of my time will the internship take?

We expect you to devote yourself entirely to the internship, which includes farm and garden work, the study project, educational activities, and other related work and projects. You are also expected to participate in general household activities such as food harvesting, preparation, clean-up, etc. This is not a "9-to-5" experience, rather, it requires flexibility and willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done. We are looking for people who will make the most out of their experience.

Can I complete an internship in less than 8 weeks?

Only in special cases (extensive tropical agroforestry experience and ample experience producing extension-level educational materials) would we consider an internship period of less than 8 weeks.

Will there be an orientation?

There is a two week no-fault trial period during which time you will be able to get a feeling for our farm, projects, and working environment and we will get a sense for how well we work together.

How long will it take for you to respond to e-mail questions?

Before writing us, please read this web page and scan the contents of Agroforestry.net to learn more about our activities. Questions that are specific and require brief answers are more likely to be answered quickly.

Audience for Craig Elevitch's presentation about traditional agroforestry homegardens, which took place at the Kona Outdoor Circle, in Kona, Hawaii.