Save the Date - Dec. 7th!

We'll be hosting our second annual Holiday at the Farm.

Meet Barbie Kellner: Bringing Fun and Learning to MSU Tollgate Farm.

Barbie Kellner, Extension Educator for Camps & Public Programs at MSU Tollgate Farm, brings a wealth of experience in engaging and educating diverse audiences through dynamic and engaging programs. With a passion for fostering a love of learning and the outdoors, Barbie is dedicated to making MSU Tollgate Farm a vibrant hub for community engagement.

Barbie's journey into education began with her deep interest in zoology, earning a Bachelor's degree in Zoology with a concentration in Zoo and Aquarium Science from Michigan State University. This passion led her to work at the Detroit Zoo, where she served as a zookeeper before transitioning to the Education Department.

Her eight years as Camp Director for the 'Safari Camp' day camp program at the Detroit Zoo honed her skills in program development and leadership, catering to a wide range of young learners. Beyond her experience at the Detroit Zoo, Barbie also broadened her horizons by working at The Robot Garage in Birmingham. This venture allowed her to gain valuable experience in the for-profit sector, managing school field trips, subscription kit classes, and in-person educational programs. Her experience with early learner programs like Zoo Tots and Nature Tots, as well as scout programs, field trips, and various other initiatives, showcases her versatility and dedication to creating engaging educational opportunities.

Barbie's philosophy on program design is simple yet powerful “A successfully designed program is one that I myself would enjoy, no matter which age level it is designed for. It should be educational, develop skills for the future, and most importantly--be fun!’” This philosophy guides her approach at MSU Tollgate Farm, where she is excited to leverage the farm's beautiful setting to create enriching outdoor experiences for all ages.

Barbie believes strongly in the importance of spending time outdoors, particularly for children. She sees MSU Tollgate Farm as a unique opportunity to connect people with nature and provide a space for learning and exploration. She is actively working to expand and diversify the farm's programming, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of the community and introduces a wider audience to the farm's diverse offerings.

When not on the farm she loves spending time with her family, including her two kids who are both students at MSU, and she’s a new mentor for a high school robotics team. When she’s not socializing with friends, she likes hanging out at home with her pets a dog (Corbin), cat (Dragon), rabbits (Jojo and Momo), and a snake (Noodle)

Next time you visit the farm - make sure to say hello to Barbie.

Tollgate Farm is excited to announce that we are actively seeking sponsors for our annual Maplefest fundraiser, happening on March 8th-9th, 2025.

Now in its 11th year, Maplefest is a beloved community-wide event that draws visitors of all ages, creating an excellent platform for local businesses and organizations to showcase their brands. By partnering with us, sponsors not only gain exposure to a diverse audience but also contribute to supporting essential agriculture-based programs that provide hands-on, experiential learning opportunities at Tollgate Farm.

Attendees will immerse themselves in the fascinating world of maple production, from tapping trees to witnessing the sugar shack operation, all while enjoying delicious maple-infused treats. Join us in celebrating this sweet winter tradition and make a meaningful impact on our community by becoming a valued sponsor of Maplefest 2025!

Email Lisa Bahm for more information: bahmlisa@msu.edu

Picture of the month!

We are thrilled to announce our Pumpkinfest drill winner, Lisa Conway, a proud resident of Farmington, MI, and an esteemed MSU alumna. This year, thanks to the generous support of Great Lakes ACE, we held an exciting raffle for a coveted Dewalt Drill Kit, valued at $300.

Lisa, who attended Pumpkinfest with her daughter and cousins, was elated to learn that she had won, especially since she did not own a drill prior to this lucky moment.

Hosting your next meeting or event at historic Tollgate Farm offers a unique and charming backdrop that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and rich history, our farm provides both indoor and outdoor spaces perfectly suited for any occasion, from corporate retreats to family gatherings. Imagine exchanging ideas in a serene, peaceful environment, surrounded by natural beauty that inspires creativity and collaboration.

With our dedicated team ready to assist with every detail, you can focus on what truly matters—connecting with your attendees. Don’t miss the opportunity to make your event unforgettable; book now for 2025 by calling (248) 347-3860 ext 200, and let us help you create a memorable experience at Tollgate Farm!