We are looking for UNPAID caretaker(s) for our beautiful and remote
acre off-grid forest property on the Oregon Coast. We have had a lovely and hardworking couple for the past 1.5 years who are unable to continue. They have invested a lot of sweat in reviving the vegetable garden and
greenhouse (previous owners had a vegetable and egg business in Brookings, OR), digging out and developing the young orchard (now with raspberries, varieties of gooseberries, cherries, plums, wild huckleberries and elderberries, figs, and much more), maintaining the gravity powered
water system, taking care of a small flock of poultry which includes laying hens, and keeping the place occupied (with hunters and other trespassers out.)
It is steep (largely south and west facing) with lots of walking (must be in good shape.) The main roads have been improved greatly. It is a 10 mile drive from the highway on graveled county and forest service roads.
There is piped water to the main areas of the homestead, a
compost outhouse, and lovely outdoor (covered) propane
hot water shower. It is camping with amenities. It is near to fantastic hunting and fishing (20 miles to the mouth of the Rogue River), ocean views, and borders national forest. Fantastic mushrooming in the winter; huckleberries are on now. There is no electricity. There is a small
solar set up where I typically charge my phone and laptop when I am able to be around; though I also have a small gas generator for use in the winter when the rain blocks the sun. Verizon covers the mountain with cell service (I use a USB modem for internet.)
There are basic tools for basic required maintenance projects and
firewood (chainsaw, woodchipper, a few power tools run off the generator, etc.). This is unpaid. Just a place to camp out in exchange for maintaining the basic infrastructure and keeping it occupied (and feeding the chickens.) Ideally the person(s)
should have their own means of transport and savings or income. We are really sorry to have the couple leave that have been with the place the last nearly 2 years, but health requires them to move off the mountain. We would require a background check before finalizing an agreement. It isn’t an easy place to live, but could be a wonderful adventure for the right person(s). It might snow a few times in the winter, but doesn't get very cold. There are two micro-cabins, one for us, the owners, and one for the caretakers. The previous caretakers might need a couple of months to vacate. A temporary caretaker with a small RV or other means of camping would be preferred until longer term lodging can be offered; though we prefer a longer-term arrangement. My family actually typically sleep/camp in the end of the
greenhouse when they come to visit and help with property projects.
The posting is available on -
http://www.caretaker-jobs.com/search_detail_jobs.cfm?CFID=49167556&CFTOKEN=8473748&ID=45757.
I have lots of photos and absolutely love the place. We live and work in Washington State while the property is slowly developed, so aren't there as often as we would like. We have had the place almost 3 years and appreciate having responsible hands onsite to keep things maintained and helping with projects like the young orchard, improving the veg garden, and keeping water off the roads.