Central Wyoming College's Container Farm arrived yesterday at the Lander Center. The 40-foot shipping container is a fully automated hydroponic, year-round growing system, and is capable of producing two to four acres of produce a year.
"This will enhance the Central Wyoming College student experience," says Ethan Page, Instructor of Local Food and Agriculture. "We will now be able to eliminate seasonal and logistical barriers and grow food at the Lander Center 365 days a year. We operate a student farm and a farm incubator program at the Alpine Science Institute in Sinks Canyon We will now be able to offer fresh veggies at local farmers' markets throughout the year."
CWC's AAS Degree in Regenerative Small Scale Farming is the first of its kind in Wyoming. Central Wyoming College also offers a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Organizational Management and Leadership with an option in Agricultural Leadership.
"We are excited to have new technology on campus so our students can learn about these alternative high-tech farming practices," says Brad Tyndall, President of Central Wyoming College. "It is cutting edge and has major implications for substantially increasing food production in small spaces, and for bringing fresh foods to food deserts that have little or no access to these healthy and fresh food options."
Central Wyoming College provides comprehensive agricultural education touching on all aspects of small farm management. Courses include the crop production practicum and farm business classes, where CWC students have an 80% field / 20% classroom mix. The program also covers horticulture science, and pest management and can now add controlled environment agriculture (CEA) to the mix.
A greenhouse is planned for the site in the future, as well as additional courses based on greenhouse management and hydroponics. The goal is to increase the availability of locally grown food and expand employment and business opportunities.
Source: County10