Our Campus Partner: Agroecology Education farm
What is the acroecology farm?
The Agroecoogy Education Farm is a small, organic farm on campus at NC State. The Agroecology Farm is an organic farm that produces a variety of crops throughout the year, and provide a safe for environment for local animal/plant life. The agroecology farm was created in 2005 to educate students on how to create a sustainable and organic farm and provide a unique, hands on learning experience. The farm was founded by Dr. Michelle Schroeder-Moreno, David Orr and Mike Linker. The farm is located next to the Historic Yates Mill Park. As of 2013, Alison Reeves is the farm manager, and a partner with the EcoVillage.
How do they Serve the COmmunity? |
The vegetables produced by the Agroecology Farm are then brought to the NC State Dining Halls where it is prepared and served. Students are able to volunteer on the farm, and get a great service learning experience. The farm is also home to NC State's Bee Keeping Club, and provides both education and honey.
the challenges faced by the farm
Some of the challenges that the agroecology farm faces is the cost to keep it running. The agroecology farm spends money on seeds, fertilizer, compost, equipment, labor, fuel, and more. The farm gets it’s funding from the CEFS, NC State dining, and donations. Soil management is another challenge for the farm. They have to control the physical, biological, and chemical aspects to the soil. They use soil made from crop residue, manures, and compost to keep the soil healthy. They also till as little as possible, to reduce aeration and warmth.