Department of Horticulture Organic Farmer Training Program

Program Description

Click here to visit media page, and for a transcript of the narrative.

Make your farm dreams a reality! Join the OFTP learning community to be inspired by visits to 20+ farms, for in-depth online discussions about your farm plans and for hands-on learning. Choose to learn at either the MSU Student Organic Farm in East Lansing or at Keep Growing Detroit. (NOTE: Detroit site is full for 2024) Outside of class each Monday, video lectures, readings and practical assignments will connect learning themes from the class to YOUR farm goals. Many of these assignments build toward your farm plan. The OFTP is a vibrant learning community connecting students of different backgrounds, ages, genders and levels of farm and life experience. Everyone learns from each other and shares their unique skills, experience and goals.

The OFTP uses different themes each week to give graduates the working knowledge of farming, soils,  marketing, community engagement, business and non-profit management  to operate a diversified small farm. Each graduate leaves with their complete Farm Business Plan, Community Farm Plan or Homestead Plan and earns a Certificate from MSU Student Organic Farm and the MSU Department of Horticulture.

Please email oftp@msu.edu with questions!