Michigan State University Extension - Oakland County

05/29/2026

Oakland County MSU Extension is hiring!

Farm Manager at Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks

The Farm Manager position brings demonstrated agricultural expertise, hands-on farm management ability, and a genuine commitment to public engagement and educational mission in a dynamic, community-centered environment.

View full description and apply at: http://careers.msu.edu - Search for posting 1131472 using the Job Search field.

Application Deadline is June 2, 2026.

05/28/2026

Oakland County MSU Extension is hiring!

Tollgate Farm Manager

As a key member of the Tollgate leadership team, you will provide comprehensive oversight of farm operations, facilities, equipment, and grounds. This includes managing the daily operations of a working educational farm and ensuring that all physical assets of the farm are maintained, safe, and fully functional to support educational programming, agricultural production, events, and community use.

View full description and apply at: http://careers.msu.edu - Search for posting 1131466 using the Job Search field.

Application Deadline is June 2, 2026.

05/27/2026

Join the Michigan State University Extension – Oakland County team and help create unforgettable camp experiences for kids! From outdoor adventures to hands-on learning, you’ll spend your days having fun, building skills, and making a real impact.

Depending on the camp location, you’ll help lead activities like kayaking, archery, golf, gardening, fishing, biking, climbing, orienteering, and more! 🚣‍♀️🎯🌱

Perfect for anyone studying education, environmental science, recreation—or anyone who just loves working with kids and being outdoors!

Make this a summer you’ll actually remember 💚

Camp Website: ➡️ https://tinyurl.com/2p9tyzta
Camp Coordinator: https://careers.msu.edu/.../summer-camp-coordinator...
Educational Leader: https://careers.msu.edu/.../summer-camp-educational...
Support Leader: https://careers.msu.edu/.../summer-camp-support-leader...

05/27/2026

05/26/2026

Oakland County MSU Extension is hiring!

Livestock Coordinator - Bowers Farm Assistant Manage

Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks is a multi-species working farm whose livestock operations play a vital role in the overall functioning of the site. As the Livestock Coordinator, you will be the primary point of contact for all livestock-related matters.

View full description and apply at: http://careers.msu.edu - Search for posting

1131469 using the Job Search field.
Application Deadline is June 2, 2026.

05/26/2026

05/20/2026

Today kicks off the fall Foundations of Gardening scholarship application period! Spread the word to your gardening friends!
https://www.canr.msu.edu/foundations-of-gardening/scholarships

05/18/2026

Holy Cow! It’s Duke’s Debut!
Show your enthusiasm for the Animal Barn by registering here: https://shorturl.at/WyJT4

Funds raised will support animal care, be a part of Duke’s journey here at the farm!

05/13/2026

This isn't a sale you'll want to miss! MSU Tollgate Spring Plant Sale is BACK!

Join us on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 9 am to 2 pm, and discover beautiful additions for your landscape!

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, our knowledgeable MSUE Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand to provide expert advice, helping you select plants that thrive in your specific site conditions. Arrive early to ensure the best selection, as the popular plants often go quickly!

No pre-registration is required, simply show up and enjoy the day!

All proceeds from the sale directly benefit the stunning MSU Tollgate Horticultural Gardens, ensuring their continued beauty and educational value for the community.
Learn more here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/tollgate-spring-plant-sale

05/11/2026

🌊 Planning a beautiful, healthy lakeshore? Start smart—with the right plants at the water’s edge.

The Michigan State University Extension tipsheet “Smart Lakefront Plants” highlights how shoreline landscaping isn’t just about looks—it’s about protecting the lake itself.

Here’s why smart lakefront planting matters:
🌿 Native plants stabilize soil and reduce shoreline erosion
💧 Vegetation helps filter runoff before it enters the water
🦆 Shoreline plants create critical habitat for fish, birds, and wildlife
🌊 Roots and plant buffers reduce wave energy from wind and boat traffic
💚 A natural shoreline supports cleaner, healthier lakes over time

Instead of mowing right to the water’s edge, a thoughtfully designed buffer of native plants helps protect water quality while still keeping your shoreline beautiful and usable.

🌱 From emergent aquatic plants to shoreline shrubs and upland natives, each zone plays a role in building a stronger lakeshore ecosystem.

Let’s rethink the shoreline—not as a lawn, but as a living system that protects what we love 🌊🌿
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart_lakefront_plants

05/08/2026

🌳 Looking to level up your landscape? Start with smart trees & shrubs!

The Michigan State University Extension tipsheet “Smart Trees and Shrubs for Michigan Landscapes” highlights how the right woody plants can create a strong, beautiful, and low-maintenance foundation for your yard.

Here’s what to keep in mind:
🌿 Choose native or well-adapted plants for long-term success
💧 Reduce water use, fertilizers, and pesticides
🦋 Support birds, pollinators, and local wildlife
💪 Build a more resilient, hardy landscape
💰 Save time and money on maintenance

✨ The key? Match your plants to your site—sunlight, soil, moisture, and space all matter. A plant that fits its environment will thrive with less work and fewer problems.

🌱 From trees like black gum and hophornbeam to shrubs like ninebark and viburnum, there are so many beautiful native options to explore right here in Michigan.

Let’s plant smarter, not harder—and create landscapes that last 🌿
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart_trees_and_shrubs_for_michigan_landscapes