I always look forward to nature and wildlife presentations and earlier this year, I heard about a presentation on the Clarkston Family Farm. Even though it’s only about a 15-minute drive from my house, it snagged my attention and I decided to attend at the last minute.
Chelsea Anne O’Brien is the founder and executive director of the farm and she gave a lively presentation. I chatted with her at the end of the program and she invited me to swing by if I’d like to learn more.
I did a few weeks later and the next thing I knew, I became a volunteer at the farm and find myself there almost every week. During every visit I find time to say hi to some of the farm animals, including one of my favorites – their largest pig, Gemma.
The first time I volunteered I helped with a pond study program where young children from local schools explored pond life and looked at aquatic macroinvertebrates, which for those who don’t know, are any animal without a backbone that are large enough to be seen with a microscope. It was really fun day watching young children using hand lenses to watch these tiny creatures before they were all released back to the pond. I decided that day to keep coming back.
Some educational programs are for preschoolers with their parents, others for elementary and high school classes and there are plenty of special events. And there are always projects to keep the farm operating.
Sometimes I prune trails and unload equipment. And I’m always chatting with visitors and have even been caught more than a few times talking to the farm animals.
When a group arrives, we all gather under the Pavillion, which I helped winterize just a few days ago. She welcomes the groups and recites the two rules of the farm: “Have fun and be safe.” Then, it’s time for a new “Learning Adventure,” which were created to give participants a chance to experience nature-based education.
These sessions are focused on broad themes and prompt visitors to think about topics such as Trees, Trails, and Tracks. Sessions are age appropriate and have hands-on experiences, including literature, movement, and music. Many sessions will have a take-home project and additional activities are offered for teachers or families to further the discussion and learning back in the classroom or at home.
There is an almost endless list of upcoming events which are included on the farm’s website. I’m looking forward to heading back to the farm in a few days as general helper and I always look forward to visiting with the chickens and pigs and tossing a few bales of hay.
“Christmas at the Farm” is a big event that will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 3-6 p.m. This is an absolute favorite event to celebrate the holiday season! One small change this year: There is a suggested $5 per person registration fee.
Volunteering is fun, so if you’re interested in joining me at the farm, you, your community group, team or organization please contact the Clarkston Family Farm at clarkstonfamilyfarm.com. All ages and abilities are welcome.
For more information on the farm, you can also find them on Facebook.
Perhaps I’ll see you at the farm! A warning: once you go for a visit you may find yourself wanting to volunteer as well.
Jonathan Schechter is the Nature Education Writer for Oakland County Government and blogs about nature’s way, trails and wildlife on the Wilder Side of Oakland County.
Follow along with Oakland County on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, X, and YouTube using #OaklandCounty, or visit our website for news and events year-round.