Skip to content

THE LIVING FARM PROJECT

The Living Farm Project is a collaboration between Grant Industries, Inc., and the Binghamton University Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP).  It embodies a holistic educational philosophy that positions students not just as learners but as co-pilots in the educational process.

The project is deeply rooted in the principles of ecological literacy and lifelong optimal learning. By engaging students directly in activities such as regenerative agriculture, ecological design, and sustainable practices, the project transforms the farm into a living classroom where theory and practice converge seamlessly.

This initiative goes beyond traditional academics, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and self-direction—skills that are essential for both academic and career success.

jonathan-kemper-1HHrdIoLFpU-unsplash

HANDS-ON LEARNING

Recent trends in farm to school programs in New York State suggest a climate favorable to programs that aim to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students.

For example, a 2019 USDA Census on farm to school participation in New York State showed that farm to school participation has been picking up momentum over the last 10 years.

A report by the Office of the New York State Comptroller outlined federal and State initiatives that are intended to encourage farm-to-school programs, details hurdles school districts may face when creating such programs, and offers ideas for overcoming those challenges.

This report identifies a number of factors that have contributed to the farm-to-school movement, including a growing interest in local foods, concerns about children’s health, and the desire to promote agriculture and preserve farmland in areas across the State.

According to the report,

“Farm-to-school programs can enhance students’ educational experience as well, providing appealing opportunities for hands-on math and science lessons. They represent a valuable contribution to New York’s important agricultural sector, expanding the local customer base for farmers across the State. These programs even benefit our environment by reducing the need for long-distance transportation of foods.”

GOALS OF THE LIVING FARM PROJECT

  • Promote academic literacy through hands-on projects

  • Promote ecological literacy through hands-on projects

  • Foster college and university preparation through academic advising

  • Promote lifelong optimal learning through applied research to improve local communities
fernanda-martinez-yPPfWDSgUNw-unsplash-1

WHAT'S UP NEXT

Upcoming projects will include:

  • Edible Food Forest Design

  • Green Barn Restoration

  • Green farmhouse restoration

  • Ecologically designed bridge

  • Holistic water management

  • Green Perimeter fencing and paddock design

  • Hands-on STEAM learning opportunities in the following areas:
    • Maple syrup production
    • Green design of Sugar Shack
    • Assessment of maple trees on farm
    • Tapping of maple trees on farm
    • Processing of maple syrup
    • Canning of maple syrup

LIFELONG OPTIMAL LEARNING INITIATIVES

  • Monthly discussions and dinners: 
    Readings, Documentaries and International Environmental Justice workshops

  • Cooperative Economic Development workshops: 
    Co-planned with local middle and high-school teachers