What Is a WWOOF, WWOOFer—and Why They Matter on Farms Like Ours
Curious about WWOOFing? Discover how WWOOFers help small farms thrive, and why this global movement is more than just volunteer work.
The Dirt on WWOOF: A Global Movement That’s Growing (Literally)
Ever met someone who says, "I’m WWOOFing in South Carolina this fall" and wondered what they meant? No, it's not a sneeze. It’s an international exchange network connecting volunteers—called WWOOFers—with organic farms like ours. At Clemson Tea Farm, they’re more than volunteers—they’re part of the heartbeat of our daily life.
So... What Is WWOOF?
WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It’s a global program that links people who want to learn about sustainable agriculture with hosts who need help running organic farms. Volunteers receive room, board, and a rich, muddy education in return for hands-on help.
It’s not a paid gig—it’s a cultural and educational exchange. Think of it like a working retreat: you feed the chickens, harvest herbs, and learn to brew compost tea... then eat a homemade meal with the family.
Who Are WWOOFers?
WWOOFers come from all over—college students, retired teachers, couples on sabbatical, midlife career changers. Some stay for a weekend, others for months. What they share is a curiosity about where food comes from, a desire to live more simply, and a willingness to get their hands dirty.
"I thought I came to weed tea beds. I ended up rediscovering what community feels like." —Former WWOOFer at Clemson Tea Farm
A Day in the Life: WWOOFing at Clemson Tea Farm
Our WWOOFers might start the day with the chickens and end it labeling seedlings in the nursery. In between? Brewing herbal infusions, mulching fruit tree guilds, turning compost, and sometimes... fixing the wheelbarrow again.
We offer structure, a daily rhythm, and mentorship. But we also offer laughter, real farm tasks, education on permaculture, regenerative farming, bee-keeping, faith-filled conversation, and the kind of quiet you can’t find in the city.
Why It Matters
For us, WWOOFing isn’t just about labor—it’s about legacy. Loving God and loving people. Teaching regenerative agriculture, fostering cross-cultural exchange, and cultivating wonder is part of our mission. WWOOFers breathe fresh energy into our farm and often leave changed themselves.
And yes, sometimes they also leave with chickens named after them.
Wanna Geek Out?
WWOOF International
Regenerative Farming Principles (Rodale Institute)
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