Department of HorticultureOrganic Farmer Training Program

Program Description

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Make your farm dreams a reality!Join the OFTP learning community to be inspired by visits to 20+ Michigan 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 2023). Outside of class each Monday, video lectures, readings and practical assignments, like writing a Farm Business Plan will connect learning themes from the class to YOUR farm goals.

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 farm production, management, marketing, and business operations needed to operate a diversified small farm. Each graduate leaves with their complete Farm Business Plan and earns a Certificate from MSU Student Organic Farm and the MSU Department of Horticulture.

Please email oftp@msu.edu with questions!