PREF Oakland - Campus Farm
Growing a more connected campus community
The Campus Farm is a place where students, faculty, staff, and community members come together to explore and reimagine how we can grow food and care for the land that feeds us. Through hands-on learning, local partnerships, and commitment to sustainability, the farm sparks connection and cultivates meaningful change.
Spanning 2.5 acres on Northeastern’s Oakland campus, the farm grows a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers, along with over 60 varieties of fruit in the farm’s terraced orchard. It’s not just a source of fresh produce – it’s a living classroom that nourishes and inspires how we might reimagine a more sustainable local and global foodsystem.
Volunteering at the farm
The Oakland Campus Farm is a chance to connect with your community, learn about food systems, and make a tangible impact.
To participate, reach out to the farm to let us know you’re interested. You’ll receive an RSVP form that must be submitted in advance. When you arrive for your first session, you’ll be asked to fill out a quick waiver on-site.
- Location:
Enter through the main campus gate, take your first right toward Richards Lot. Parking is available in Richards Lot.
- Spring Semester Hours:
1st Saturday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Wednesdays: 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
(except the 1st Wednesday)
Volunteering at the farm
The Oakland Campus Farm is a chance to connect with your community, learn about food systems, and make a tangible impact.
To participate, reach out to the farm to let us know you’re interested. You’ll receive an RSVP form that must be submitted in advance. When you arrive for your first session, you’ll be asked to fill out a quick waiver on-site.
- Location:
Enter through the main campus gate, take your first right toward Richards Lot. Parking is available in Richards Lot.
- Spring Semester Hours:
1st Saturday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Wednesdays: 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
(except the 1st Wednesday)
Get involved with the farm
Visit our Farm Stand
The farm stand is open every Wednesday from 12:00 to 2:00 pm outside the Tea Shop while classes are in session. Enjoy fresh, seasonal food grown right here on campus and support the farm with every purchase.
Join our CSA Program
Our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program is open to Northeastern students, faculty, staff, and our Oakland neighbors. Each week, you’ll receive a curated selection of fresh, organic produce grown right here on campus. It’s an easy way to eat seasonally, support sustainable campus agriculture, and enjoy what’s growing just steps away.
Volunteer with us
The farm offers volunteer opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to connect with the community and learn about the food system. No experience is needed, just bring your curiosity and a willingness to dig in. We welcome volunteers during our open hours:
- 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: 3:30–5:30 p.m.
- 2nd & 4th Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Please wear closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor work. You might get a little muddy, but that’s part of the fun.
Visit us at Farm Fest
Oakland Farm Fest is a twice-yearly celebration of sustainability, seasonal food, and community connection. It’s open to Northeastern students, faculty, staff, neighbors, and families across the Oakland community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I visit the farm?
Yes! The farm welcomes visitors during our drop-in volunteer hours.
Location:
Enter through the main campus gate, take your first right toward Richards Lot. Parking is available in Richards Lot.
- Spring Semester Hours:
1st Saturday of the month: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Wednesdays: 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
(except the 1st Wednesday of the month)
What kinds of crops are grown on the farm?
We grow a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens, tomatoes, squash, fruit trees, herbs, native flowers, and more. We also maintain honeybee hives on-site to support pollination and educate the community about beekeeping and environmental stewardship.
Where can I buy the food you grow?
- The farm stand is open every Wednesday from 12:00 to 2:00 pm outside the Tea Shop while classes are in session.
- Our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program runs from June through September and provides subscribers with a weekly box of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers grown right on the farm. LINK TO CSA PAGE
Does the farm supply food to campus dining?
Absolutely! We partner with Northeastern’s dining services to incorporate farm-fresh produce into meals served on campus. We also support monthly Heritage Feasts.
Does the farm support research, class visits, or student projects?
Yes! The farm is a vibrant space for learning, experimentation, and collaboration. We welcome student and faculty partnerships that explore topics like sustainability, agriculture, environmental science, community engagement, and more.
If you’re interested in conducting research, hosting a class activity, or developing a project with us, please reach out to: oaklandfarm@northeastern.edu
Is the farm ADA accessible?
The Farm Center is ADA accessible. However, the farm beds and orchards are located on uneven terrain and are not fully accessible for wheelchairs or mobility devices.
What should I know before visiting the farm?
To help us keep the farm safe, productive, and welcoming for everyone, please follow these guidelines during your visit:
- No fires or open flames
- Do not pick, remove, or damage plants unless it’s staff-directed
- No pets (service animals welcome)
- Clean up after yourself and respect shared spaces
- Stay on designated paths and avoid stepping into growing beds unless invited
Thanks for helping us care for this special community space!