Experienced organic farmer seeking small parcel to start a market-garden and children's farm-education facility/summer camp. Willing to trade labor for space.
Preferred location: Monroe, Washtenaw, Wayne
Desired Transitional Agreement: Farm Seeker/Farm Owner Partnership, Lease, Lease to buy, Working arrangement with future partner
Apr 10, 2025
Desired Acreage
- < 1 Acres
- 1-5 Acres
Desired Infrastructure
Desired Land Usage
Goals, Values, Vision
I am seeking the opportunity to lease a small parcel to sustainably grow a variety of fruits and vegetables while taking care to improve the land. I would also utilize the land to host "farm to table" kid and adult educational classes.
I have been working on farms for a total of 3 years, and am currently enrolled in the MSU Organic Farmers Training Program. I have a 6 year old son who I homeschool and has been the inspiration for this vision.
I would like the opportunity to tend a portion of land, planting and/or tending to fruit trees, perennial and annual crops, for edible and educational purposes. It would be nice to have a shed/barn/greenhouse or have the ability to erect one but not necessary. I would like to also raise a small amount of rabbits and chickens for land fertilizing and educational purposes.
The ideal piece of property would also have some forest land in order to go on hikes, forage, and practice plant/tree/animal identification. I would love the opportunity for my son and I to stay on the property in my own camper to care for the property during the week. I have it set up for "off-grid" living.
I am open to negotiating lease terms and would be happy to offer either a monthly rental payment or contribute 1–2 days per week of farm labor in exchange for use of the land. I’m committed to creating a mutually beneficial arrangement that supports both the educational goals of the program and the ongoing needs of the farm.
Farming Status
Current Farming Status
Part Time, Current active business plan
Farm Experience/Education
Farm employee, Farm internship/apprenticeship
Mentoring
I am seeking mentorship, I am willing to mentor a farmer
Farming Plans and Practices
Farming Method
Organic Practices
No till, as eco friendly as possible. A closed loop system utilizing rabbit and chicken manure to enrich soil and composting discarded plant/animal materials. Using agroforestry and intercropping practices.