By Vanessa Beeson
Mississippi State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences recently planted the first seeds on its new experiential student farm.
Located near the A.B. McKay Enology Laboratory and the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station’s R.R. Foil Plant Science Research Center, the farm is immersing students in sustainable agriculture, design education and modern food production, preparing them for diverse careers through hands-on learning and community engagement.
“At Mississippi State, we’re creating opportunities for students to engage with the land, connect with the food web that sustains us locally and globally, and make farming and food cultivation part of their everyday lives. By fostering hands-on learning and access to resources, we’re empowering students to cultivate their own food and understand the vital connections between soil health and food security,” said Scott Willard, CALS dean and MAFES director.
The developing farm supports multiple programs, including horticulture, landscape architecture, and nutrition. Future plans include working with MSU Dining Services partner Aramark to bring fresh, student-grown produce to campus dining and donating produce to Bully’s Pantry to support university students facing food insecurity.
Source : msstate.edu