2025 Pre-Session

Join us May 19-29, 2025 for Pre-Session!

During this beloved tradition, eight to twelve residents work side-by-side with our permanent and seasonal staff to prepare the facilities, equipment and grounds for the summer season. Pre-Session residents work on Watershed projects for six six-hour days, one three-hour day and have two full days with no work requirement. Projects include repairing and cleaning studios and equipment, landscape and grounds maintenance, and cleaning residential building interiors and exteriors.  

Residents have full access to the Watershed Studio, are provided with housing and three meals a day each day except Saturday & Sunday – these days residents may access left-overs, cook for themselves or dine out. Arrival and departure days will have some preparation and clean-up duties.

Watershed assigns projects to Pre-Session residents that are appropriate for their skill level and experience. Teamwork and collegiality are extremely important to the success of Pre-Session. Residents should be aware that most tasks require physical exertion and/or exposure to nature and the elements. Attendees should come prepared to work outdoors in all kinds of weather and get dirty. Specialized skills such as carpentry and general building maintenance, grounds keeping, and cleaning are highly desirable.