The goal of this project is to start a student-operated farm that produces significant quantities of fruits and vegetables for use in the University food service operations. The operation of such a farm will be of significant educational value, reduce carbon emissions associated with food production and transportation as well as be of value to Extension programs. Additionally, this project furthers the university’s role as a land grant institution. Thus, the Student Sustainability Committee is in favor of funding the full requested amount of $50,000.

Project goals – To start a student-operated farm that produces significant quantities of fruits and vegetables for use in the University food service operations. Successfully developing and operating this farm will yield the following benefits.

1) Contribute to campus sustainability by reducing carbon emissions associated with the transport of fresh produce from farms thousands of miles from campus.

2) Provide training for students who wish to develop their own fruit and vegetable farming operations.

3) Provide abundant, delicious, and locally grown produce for the Campus.