The average age of American farmers is 53. There are a large number over 65 who will retire and have no sons or daughters who want to take over. They are increasingly turning to caretakers to maintain their land. While many landowners seek experienced caretakers with specific skills, others are willing to take on and train people with general backgrounds. As with most other occupations, such traits as honesty, common sense, and flexibility are key prerequisites.
Many retirees find that caretaking evolves into a fulltime second career.
With solid backgrounds in caretaking and excellent references from previous employers, they are in great demand by landowners and are able to find positions throughout the U.S. and abroad. You see what needs to be done and you do it. We generally go into Oaxaca city to shop and do email two or three times a week. We continually experience the friendliness and basic kindness of its people, who generally have less and give more. As we slow down there is a very nice sense of being connected.