Field Trips

Our youth programs and field trip opportunities are extremely valuable experiences for the youth and volunteers we serve. While each experience is unique, we weave in themes of healthy eating, cooking, and active living practices into each of our hands-on interactions with agriculture and the natural world. In addition, upon your request, we aim to incorporate themes that are currently relevant to your classroom lessons. Due to the nature of our programs and because of the wild and delicate nature of the farm’s environment, we are able to accommodate only one class/group at a time (35 youth maximum plus an additional 8 adult chaperones).

Discovery Field Trips

One-time farm visits for TK through grade 12

Organic farming meets academic standards as participants engage in hands-on interactions with agriculture, native plant restoration projects, healthy food habits, and nature explorations. Group field trips include a farm tour, hands-on activities, nutrition education, and service projects. Kids meet the farmers, the farm animals, and explore the natural wonders of the farm! Trips are led by experienced educators who help guide students towards a deeper understanding of the local food system and ecosystem. Discovery Field Trips for TK and Kindergarten are 2.5 hours long from 9 to 11:30am. Discovery Field Trips for grades 1 through high school are three hours long from 9:30am to 12:30pm.
$16 per student ($240 minimum per field trip)*
$5 per adult (8 adults free)
Min/Max group size: 15-35 people

Please read the additional info docs provided below >>

Exploration Field Trips

Series of farm visits for grades 1 through 12

Ranch Exploration Series: Students take a journey through the seasons with a series of four field trips to the American River Ranch. Students learn about soil fertility, food production, planting and tending native and food-bearing plants, irrigation, organic garden design, seasonality (featuring fresh snacks from the farm!), and hands-on tasks in the Youth Garden. Participants explore all aspects of the American River Ranch from the gardens and fields, to nearby Cordova Creek and the American River Parkway. Participants will walk away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of sustainable agriculture in an urban setting along a riparian corridor.

$80 per student ($1,200 minimum for a field trip series)

$5 per adult (8 adults free)

Min/Max group size: 15-35 people
Please read the additional info docs provided below.
Sign up for an Exploration Field Trip Series >>

Before signing up for a field trip, please review these additional info documents:

Frequently Asked Questions
For Teachers and Youth Group Leaders (PDF) Review with your group
For Parent Chaperones (PDF)
Farm Safety (PDF)

*Soil Born Farms may be able to offer financial assistance to low-income schools, groups or individuals. For more information on financial assistance, contact Youth Education

Sample Field Trip Agenda

Note: Times and activities change with the seasons and other variables.

9:30-9:45 Welcoming Circle & Introductions

9:45-10 Safety & Orientation

10-10:30 Farm Tour, tasting veggies as we walk.

10:30-11 Eat a snack and take a break.

11-12 Rotate through NGSS-aligned and seasonal activity stations in the Youth Garden.

12-12:20 Various service projects: Youth will work in the Youth Garden, play an educational game or make a nature based craft.

12:20-12:30 Closing circle and sharing gratitudes.

12:30-1 for Explorations, phenology wheels and a sit spot

Toddlers on the Farm Policy

Toddlers and babies are not allowed on the farm during field trips. This is a strict policy we follow with no exceptions. Our field trips are designed to provide a focused, hands-on educational experience for the registered students. Activities are geared toward the age of the class and may involve tools and supplies that are not safe for babies or toddlers. Additionally, the presence of younger siblings can distract from the learning environment and supervisory needs. Soil Born Farms invites families with children of all ages to visit the Youth Garden on Saturdays, where everyone can enjoy the designated play areas with adult supervision.