Lets get WWOOFing

A post inspired by Lyndsey.

Lydnsey mentioned something in her comment over at the post about Ardalanish- a beauty of mythical proportions…

She mention WWOOF, which was when I realised how I had forgotten to mention how the Ardalanish Organic Farm was also part of it WWOOF network. Following that realisation, another one followed – which was the likelihood that some out there might not have heard of the WWOOF or what it is.

WWOOF stands for ‘World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms where they encourage the “living, learning, sharing organic lifestyles”.

WWOOF is a world wide network that started in the UK way back in 1971. It has since become an international movement that is helping people share more sustainable ways of living through its exchange program.

You see this is how the exchange program works – It links link people who want to volunteer on organic farms or smallholdings with people who are looking for volunteer help and in return for that help WWOOF hosts offer food, accommodation and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles.

You could say that it is a form of affordable, educational vacation!

Now WWOOF is international so you’ll find that members of the network come from all over the world; covering the regions of North & Central America, South America, Europe-Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.

Believe me an experience on a WWOOF member farm in each region is unique from the other as you will learn about the local crops, the local culture and life as it is for your hosts.

However whichever farm it is you decide to experience your hosts will always posses the following WWOOF qualities:

◊ They grow organically, are in conversion, or use ecologically sound methods on their land.

◊ They provide hands-on experience of organic growing and other learning opportunities where possible.

◊ They will provide clean dry accommodation and adequate food for their volunteers.

Having a WWOOF experience will leave you richer in all wakes of your life. You will be inspired your hosts warmth and friendliness, become more appreciative for nature and that she provides and you will learn a whole new respect for farmers and the hard work that they do.

If you’ve never tried it before then I really suggest you to try the WWOOF experience at least once in your lifetime. If you admired Ardalanish Organic Farm, then you’d be happy to know they are part of the network so you can just visit the WWOOF website for more details on how to sign up.

Alternatively you can also go to the Ardalanish Website where you can read about the experience of other WWOOFers.  

Image Source: WWOOF.org