Please read through these FAQs before inquiring about volunteer opportunities.
When can I volunteer?
Spring 2026 Volunteer Opportunities - volunteer shifts are limited in early spring by weather and decreased projects
Wednesdays 4-6
Thursdays 4-6:30
Fridays 8-12
Sundays 10-2
Volunteers are required to arrive at the beginning of the shift and are encouraged to work at least 1 hour.
How do I sign up?
Please complete the form below, be sure to include information about your availability, if you’re an MSU student or community member, and if you need any mobility accommodations. Please wait until you’ve received a confirmation from an SOF staff member before showing up.
Can we volunteer as a group?
If you are a volunteer group, please email Organic Farm with the average age and number of people in your group, and a few potential dates and times that are convenient for your group. Accommodating volunteer groups may take up to 2 weeks to schedule and is subject to SOF staff availability. Volunteer groups under 18 years of age will be subject to our regular tour fee. Are you an MSU RSO in need of transportation out the farm? Check out the MSU Transportation Support Award.
What if I'm unable to make it to any of the Volunteer Shifts listed?
Fill out the Volunteer Sign Up Form and indicate your availbility!
Where is the SOF located?
The Student Organic Farm is situated on 15 acres at the western edge of the MSU Horticulture Teaching and Research Center (HTRC). Our address is 3291 College Rd. Holt, MI 48842. Volunteers meet in the Work House at the start of their shift to meet the crew and review the day's tasks.
Can I get a ride out to the farm?
We recognize the difficulty of our location for students without cars or bicycles, and want everyone interested in volunteering to have the opportunity. However, while the SOF cannot offer rides to and from the farm, student crew members with vehicles occasionally offer to pick up and drop off regular volunteers during their work schedules. Please indicate any special transportation needs when you contact us.
What should I wear when I volunteer?
Dress for the weather expected for your volunteer shift, and keep in mind you may move between greenhouses that are dry and warm and outdoor conditions with rain or snow. Closed-toed shoes are required. Depending on the weather, we recommend layers, sunscreen, a hat, and, no matter the conditions, water to drink!
What can I expect to do while I’m at the farm?
Farm work is seasonal. Because we grow in passive solar greenhouses, harvest happens here year-round. In winter and early spring, we maintain our hoop-house crops, transplant seedlings, control weeds, and prepare for spring, with occasional infrastructure projects. As temperatures rise, we start preparing the beds and planting outside. In the summer, there is so much to do: weed, water, plant, and harvest. In the fall, we roll up drip tape, put beds to sleep for the winter, and harvest root crops for storage.