Vision

We ultimately envision creating a cross-disciplinary curriculum that will link the practical experience of growing and harvesting food with food preparation, nutrition and health as well as creating a practical training in gardening for future agricultural educators. Towards this end we are discussing plans with faculty from the department of Nutrition and Food Science and the department of Agricultural Science, Technology, and Education to link some of their classes with the student farm, create small, demonstration gardens on campus, develop student-led workshops for schools and the community, and stimulate student interest in growing and consuming fresh fruit and vegetables.

Sustainability

The Student Organic Farm aims to be as self-sustaining as possible. This means that all plant residues are recycled on the farm, compost is purchased from local sources, and external inputs are minimized. We are Certified Organic through the the USDA National Organic program-meaning there are no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides used on our produce. 

National Organic Program

The National Organic Program (NOP) is a regulatory program housed within the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. They are responsible for developing national standards for organically-produced agricultural products. These standards assure consumers that products with the USDA organic seal meet consistent, uniform standards.