Let's get down to business: WWOOF

So I’ve made it to the second half of my adventure: working on the farm! But how exactly did I get here, and why the hell am I working on a farm in the first place? Here’s the low-down on how to volunteer on a farm and exactly what WWOOFing is:

Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms US (WWOOF for short) “is part of a worldwide effort to link visitors with organic farmers, promote an educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming practices”. So basically, this organization allows one to seek out farms to work on, learn, and practice sustainable organic farming. It’s a $40 annual member fee to gain access to all of the farms registered as hosts across the US. Learn more about how it works here. 

The process of searching for farms is very easy. You can search for farms by state, keywords, types, length of visit, and more! Each farm has its own profile with a description and information about applying, staying, and working. Getting in contact with hosts is as easy as clicking the “message me” button on their profile. Some farms require applications, others are as simple as messaging the host and getting the farm’s information and your start date. 

Though this website offers incredible opportunities for young and old folks alike, I will offer this tip of caution: if you’re only interested in using your farm as a home base for traveling, don’t even bother. While this is a great way to explore the world and to see new places, it’s important to remember that the people hosting you need your help. Farming isn’t an easy job, and while it’s rewarding in many ways, taking advantage of someone willing to host you, feed you, etc, when they need your help isn’t cool. Make sure you’re invested in working hard before you sign up!! If you’re ready to work hard and learn then this is absolutely the perfect opportunity for you. No two farms are alike and each offers their own unique opportunities. 

Now that you know what WWOOF is, let me tell you a little secret: it’s worldwide!!! You can sign up and have a membership to WWOOF organizations all over the globe! Try out WWOOF New Zealand or WWOOF Italy! There are opportunities everywhere to learn about organic farms, and though you shouldn’t take advantage of farmers, it’s a great way to start an adventure!

So sign up, get out there, and start WWOOFing!

Stay curious, happy travels, and happy farming!