Farm Workday:
Volunteering at Blue Iris Farm
Farm Workday is a program designed to provide a volunteering opportunity for individuals and groups to help care for rescued farm animals. The program is open to everyone, regardless of their level of experience in animal care, and it aims to educate volunteers about animal welfare and responsible farming practices.
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Our Purpose
The purpose of the program is to help Blue Iris Farm, a non-profit animal rescue farm, maintain its operations and ensure the well-being of the rescued farm animals in its care. The farm is home to a variety of animals, including horses, cows, pigs, chickens, and ducks, among others.
What to Expect as a Volunteer
By volunteering, participants will have a chance to interact with the animals, learn about their care, and contribute to the farm's mission. The program typically takes place on the first Saturday of each month and runs from 9 am to 1 pm. Volunteers are asked to arrive on time, dressed appropriately for the weather and the farm environment, and ready to work.
Typical Workday Tasks
The workday typically involves a range of tasks, such as feeding and watering the animals, cleaning animal enclosures, and maintaining the farm grounds. Volunteers will be provided with training on how to perform these tasks safely and efficiently, as well as information on animal welfare and responsible farming practices.
Socializing and Learning Opportunities
The program is also an opportunity for participants to socialize and meet like-minded people who share their passion for animal welfare and sustainable farming.
Registration Process
Registration for the program is handled through the Blue Iris Farm website, where participants can find more information about the program and the farm's mission. Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver and follow safety guidelines while on the farm.
Safety Guidelines and Responsibilities
As part of the registration process, participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. This is to acknowledge the inherent risks involved in farm work and to confirm that they understand and accept these risks. Safety guidelines will be provided to all volunteers, and it's crucial that these are followed at all times to ensure the safety of both the volunteers and the animals.
The Impact of Your Volunteer Work
By participating in the Farm Workday program, volunteers are making a significant contribution to the well-being of the rescued animals at Blue Iris Farm. Their efforts help ensure that the animals receive the care they need and that the farm can continue its mission of promoting animal welfare and responsible farming practices.
Farm Workday Outline
9:00 am - Arrival and Welcome
Volunteers arrive at the farm and are greeted by staff members or volunteer coordinators.
Volunteers are given a brief orientation and safety briefing, including instructions on how to handle animals, where to find tools and equipment, and the location of first aid kits and emergency exits.
9:30 am - Animal Care
Volunteers are divided into groups and assigned to animal care tasks, such as feeding and watering the animals, cleaning animal enclosures, and grooming.
Volunteers are trained on how to handle animals and perform the tasks safely and efficiently.
11:00 am - Break and Snacks
Volunteers take a break and enjoy some snacks and refreshments.
Volunteers have the opportunity to socialize, ask questions, and learn more about the farm and its mission.
11:30 am - Farm Maintenance
Volunteers are assigned to farm maintenance tasks, such as weeding, planting, or repairing fences.
Volunteers are trained on how to perform the tasks safely and efficiently.
1:00 pm - Wrap Up
Volunteers gather for a final debriefing and thank-you from the staff or volunteer coordinators.
Volunteers are invited to provide feedback on the program and share their experience on social media.
Volunteers have the opportunity to sign up for future workdays and learn about other volunteering opportunities at the farm.
*Note: The schedule may vary depending on the tasks required for each workday and the number of volunteers.