Sustainable Student Farm hosts annual open house this Friday

The Sustainable Student Farm (SSF) is a cornerstone of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences community. This Friday, September 5th, from 3 to 6 p.m., the farm is opening its gates and welcoming visitors for its annual open house.There will be food offerings and tours of the farm, as well as talks from faculty and SSF partners.

University Housing is providing continuous shuttles for students to and from the Sustainable Student Farm, Lincoln Avenue Residence (circle drive on Lincoln), and Ikenberry Residence Hall (northeast entrance/bus stop) from 2:30 – 6 p.m. 

Nourishing bodies and minds

SSF was founded in 2009 by Bruce Banham, professor emeritus in the Department of Crop Sciences, with a grant from the Student Sustainability Committee. Its mission is to serve as an accessible living laboratory for small, diversified farm education and training, empowering students to engage in thoughtful, sustainable, and innovative agricultural practices.

Today, the farm hosts a number of horticulture classes — as well as a rigorous summer internship — and sells fresh food to the community, including university dining halls. SSF also runs a community supported agriculture (CSA) program and a popular stand on the Quad. The farm is an ongoing project, made possible by the commitment of staff, students, and volunteers, who are always looking for ways to make the program grow.

The SSF Open House always occurs the Friday of Labor Day week. It’s an opportunity for students and members of the community to get a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable farming practices.

To see the full event schedule and learn more about supporting SSF, check out their website.