Meet the 2018 Quail Hill Farm Advanced Apprentices!
May 25, 2018
By Layton Guenther
Since the farm began nearly 30 years ago, Quail Hill Farm and director Scott Chaskey have made it an integral part of the mission to train the next generation of farms. Over 140 women and men have gone through the apprentice program, many of whom are still farming across the U.S.
Earlier this spring, Quail Hill Farm manager Layton Guenther introduced us to the Advanced Apprentices for 2018 . . . first appearing on the farm's Instagram feed, here's a little bit about each in Layton's unique style:
Jared SmithLet's kick it off with Jared "Coach Jay" Smith, fresh off the plane from California where he got schooled up real good at CASFS last season. Before that, he farmed with County Line Harvest in Petaluma and, honestly, all over the dang world. Originally from Jersey, Jared enjoys futbol, sports apparel, learning to drive stick-shift, and surf casting
Victoria VitanzaReturning to Quail Hill Farm for a second season is Stamford's own Tori "the tiger" Vitanza to show those weeds what for and to hone her oyster shucking skills. A Taurus, Tor enjoys pizza, looking after the dogs of others and Drake. Welcome back Tori!
Grace Conklin: Also back for a second season here at QHF, straight outta the mean streets of Water Mill, is Grace! An Aquarius, Grace enjoys growing and slingin' Quail Hill flowers, crystals, and hopes to grow organic veggies and flowers on her family land someday. Welcome back Grace
Miriam Kudler-FlamFresh 'otta the hills of Western Mass, this is Miriam! She spent last season at New Morning Farm in Western PA. A Virgo, Miriam enjoys dips in the water, check-lists, and tempeh. Welcome Miriam!
Sarah WallenAnother native Jerzian who spent the last couple of seasons up at Earth Sky Time in Vermont. We think Sarah is the most mellow Aries we've ever met (besides Scott). In her free time, Sarah gets stoked on throwing pots, beautiful harmonies, and tidying spaces around the farm.
Layton Guenther
Director, Quail Hill Farm
LGuenther@PeconicLandTrust.org