A warm welcome and clear communication can help your WWOOFer settle in quickly and feel comfortable from the beginning.
We recommend preparing a simple orientation guide that explains the basics of your farm or homestay, including daily routines, practical arrangements, house guidelines and what the WWOOFer can expect during their stay. Having this information written down can help prevent misunderstandings and gives both hosts and WWOOFers something clear to refer back to.
Below is a simple example that you can copy and adapt to suit your own farm, household and WWOOFing experience.
WWOOFer Orientation Sheet
Welcome to Our Farm
Welcome! We are happy to have you here. Our goal is to share knowledge about farming while learning by doing together in a respectful and enjoyable environment.
Farm Name:
Location:
Hosts names:
Contact Number:
- Type of farm: (vegetables / livestock / mixed / permaculture / etc.)
- Size of the farm:
- Main products:
- Farming philosophy: (organic, regenerative, sustainable, etc.)
Example:
- Organic vegetable production
- Small mixed farm with chickens and garden crops
- Focus on soil health and biodiversity
Our Daily Routine
- Morning:
- Lunch:
- Afternoon:
- Evening :
- Days per week:
- Rest periods:
Possible tasks include:
- Planting
- Harvesting
- Weeding
- Composting
- Animal feeding
- Cleaning tools
- Farm maintenance
Tasks vary depending on season and weather.
Farm Guidelines
To keep the farm running smoothly:
- Respect people, animals, and nature
- Clean tools after use
- Close gates and animal pens
- Keep shared spaces tidy
- Conserve water and electricity
- No smoking in buildings or near hay
- Wwoofers are not permitted to use power machinery
Safety
Please remember:
- Wear appropriate clothing and boots
- Use gloves when needed
- Be careful with tools
- Inform the host if you feel unwell or injured
First Aid Kit Location:
Emergency Contact:
Accommodation Expectations
- Keep sleeping areas clean
- Quiet hours: (example: 22:00 – 07:00)
- Shared kitchen cleanup after use
- Respect others’ space
Communication
If something is unclear or you need help:
- Ask questions anytime
- Inform us if you cannot help due to illness
- Let us know if you plan to leave the farm during your stay
Open communication helps everyone have a positive experience.
Learning & Exchange
We encourage volunteers to:
- Ask questions about farming
- Share skills or knowledge
- Participate in farm activities
- Enjoy the rural experience
Sample Activities of Interest in your Area
Include options which are accessible to the wwoofer – provide public transport instructions, etc.
Rainy day options
Departure
Before leaving, please:
- Clean your accommodation area
- Return borrowed tools or equipment
- Let us know your departure time
- We also appreciate feedback about your stay on Wwoof.ie