Youth Farm

The Youth Farm is a six-acre urban farm and collaborative educational site that cultivates a new generation of leaders by engaging young people in farming for the community.

A program of Marion Polk Food Share, in partnership with Chemeketa Community College and OSU Extension, the Youth Farm features production fields, an orchard and a learning garden. We grow more than 40 types of fruits and vegetables (and more than 80 varieties!) and all food is grown using organic methods. The food we harvest is distributed to food pantries, partnering health clinics, youth farmers and their families.

Located on the Chemeketa Community College Campus in northeast Salem, the Youth Farm also serves as a learning space for local school groups and community workshops. Contact us if your group is interested in a field trip or volunteer experience.

Work on the Youth Farm

The Food Share runs an almost year-round youth program for individuals age 13-18 who are interested in growing food and cooperatively managing a small farm business while developing their leadership skills and preparing them for college or the workplace.

Interested youth are also strongly encouraged to sign up for our youth farmer training in the spring. Training classes provide the base knowledge farmers need to know in order to plant, maintain, and harvest their own gardens as well as the basic knowledge and skills needed to help run the farm. The training is a requirement for those interested in applying for the summer farm crew.

Join the Summer Farm Crew

Training Dates: March 25th – 29th