Investigate the possibilities out there for an ... internship. You get lots of experience, some (small) pay, and even more school credits. It's one of those things they love to see on that job resume.
So check out if there are any opportunities in the local plant nurseries, the garden shops, forest management, farms, even check into the fishing industry. And don't forget about various school/gov/research projects. They love interns - cheap extra help from people who are genuinely interested in the work.
The "pay" usually isn't much. But it can often include housing and food, with a little "stipend" on the side for the occasional pub-night-out.
And also check into various "caretaker" positions. You would have to work the normal cleaning/maintenance stuff, but you would usually have housing - often with a stipend to help with food and other expenses.
And sometimes there isn't an actual "job" being offered, but walking up to a local farmer, introducing yourself, and explaining something of what you are looking to do could lead to a position working on a small or "truck" farm (growing veggies for the local farmer's market). Especially if it is an older farmer/couple that is in need of a little extra help, but can't really afford to hire anyone - they might even sort of "adopt" you.
Just a few possibilities to consider.
Mikey - yee ol' grumpy German blacksmith out in the Hinterlands