U.S. Host Partners

MESA partners with innovative, ecological U.S. farms, organic research centers, farmer training programs, and sustainable agriculture businesses to host farm-experienced, enthusiastic global trainees (aka “Stewards”) for up to 12 months of hands-on learning, sharing and cultural exchange. Our directory of farms is always growing. If you care about mentoring a new generation and would also benefit by hosting an enthusiastic, farm-experienced Steward for a full season, Join us!

A Few of Our Host Partner Sites

Located on 300 certified organic acres in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Deck Family Farm practices regenerative, rotational grazing and full-cycle livestock production. As a MESA host, they offer Stewards deep immersion in sustainable animal husbandry and land stewardship. Deck’s commitment to conservation and soil health makes it a living model of ecological farming in action.

Deck Family Farm

Empower School, nestled in Tennessee’s lush valley landscape, blends sustainable farming with community, education, and faith. Founded by Wilma Jordan on her family land, Empower offers MESA Stewards a meaningful experience rooted in legacy, stewardship, and social connection, nurturing both soul and soil.

Empower @ Valley Dream Farm

On 67 beautiful acres in Maryland, Third Way Farm embraces permaculture, no-till farming, and rotational grazing to regenerate land and community. As a MESA host, they welcome Stewards into a rich learning environment focused on working in harmony with nature. Their passion for mentorship and ecological living aligns powerfully with MESA’s mission.

Third Way Farm

“In our experience hosting MESA Stewards at Third Way Farm, we have been incredibly impressed by the caliber of character and level of work ethic they exhibit. The Stewards are passionate and committed, much as MESA is in supporting both the present and future of sustainable agriculture and the people who want to participate in it.”

-Thomas Shireman, Third Way Farm, MD

Devil's Gulch Ranch & DG Educational Services

Devil’s Gulch Ranch is a diversified family farm in Marin County, CA, focused on sustainable meat production, ecological land management, and whole-animal use. As a MESA host, DGR offers Stewards hands-on learning in livestock care, species integration, and conservation practices. Located near small towns and cultural hubs, the ranch provides a unique balance of rural immersion and access to broader community experiences.

The Natural Grocery Company has been a trailblazer in organic and sustainable food retail since the 1970s. Now 100% employee-owned, this Bay Area-based company partners with MESA to show how ethical sourcing and green operations can transform food systems. Stewards here explore the retail side of sustainability—from product selection to waste reduction—all while supporting a mission rooted in community and care for the planet.