The Clemson University Student Organic Farm is a USDA certified organic farm located on the University campus. The farm encompasses 15 acres of agricultural land used for sustainable agriculture research, education and outreach programs and is one of the few USDA certified organic farms located on a university campus. Its centralized location on campus gives it great potential for community involvement. Organic produce from the farm is available to the campus and local communities through the CSA (Campus Supported Agriculture) program to subscribed members, as well as at a Farmer's Market located at the Farm. The Farm provides university students the opportunity to get real-world experience working on a model diversified organic farming operation, and in a variety of other areas related to sustainability.
Since its inception in 2001 the Student Organic Farm has been self-supported through a combination of grants and market revenues. However a critical source of grant support was recently and unexpectedly withdrawn. This means that without additional support, all of the Farm operations, all associated research and education projects, and the market programs will be terminated.
We need to act NOW to ensure continued existence of the Student Organic Farm! In recognition of the Farm's value to the Clemson community please show your support for this proposal to address the fundamental needs for continued farm operations.
These needs include:
-Retention of the Student Organic Farm in its entirety at the current location.
- Annual University funds to hire a full-time Farm Manager.
- Funding for needed infrastructure such as a storage facility and passive solar greenhouse.
- Community-based sustainable initiatives on the Clemson University Campus.
We appreciate your support!
