Sustainable Farm Fellow

Project summary

The California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) is part of a statewide initiative to address and mitigate the effects of climate change. CCAC matches Fellows with organizations to mobilize community members to take direct climate action through education, volunteer mobilization, and assessment focused on urban greening, organic waste diversion and edible food recovery, and wildfire resiliency. This is a climate-focused, workforce development program for emerging climate and environmental leaders.

Opportunity description

The Sustainable University of Redlands Farm (SURF) serves as a pioneering hub for sustainable agriculture and community engagement, fostering ecological resilience and social empowerment. Located on the north side of the University of Redlands campus, SURF integrates diverse elements including a drought-tolerant garden, produce fields, greenhouse, community garden plots, and composting area. Fellows will spearhead management efforts at SURF and "Treestock," a tree farm initiative dedicated to shading lower-income neighborhoods and combating urban heat island effect. With a mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance community well-being, SURF Fellows will coordinate tree planting, manage composting operations, and support the Student Food Pantry. Collaborating with campus partners and local organizations, Fellows will lead initiatives to expand urban greening, sustainable gardening, and composting education programs. Through hands-on engagement and strategic partnerships, the Fellows will drive forward initiatives addressing climate resilience, food security, and environmental justice within the University of Redlands community and beyond. Lead management of Treestock program by overseeing tree selection, budget, volunteer coordination, and distribution efforts for thousands of trees grown at SURF, aiding in urban heat island mitigation and community resilience. Develop care plans for vineyards, groves, and orchards at SURF to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and optimal crop yields. Collaborate with Esri and university resources to develop a GIS application for Treestock, facilitating data collection and analysis for strategic planning. Engage with campus and local partners to expand community outreach in urban greening, sustainable gardening, and composting education programs, fostering environmental stewardship and community empowerment. Assist in composting operations, irrigation management, planting schedules, event coordination, and educational workshops to ensure the success of SURF and Treestock initiatives. Craft content for social media outreach for SURF and Treestock initiatives, amplifying community engagement and project visibility.

Benefits

• $33,600 stipend
• $10,000 education award
• 340 hours of professional development
• Minimum essential healthcare
• Loan forbearance
• Food and childcare assistance (for those eligible)