Integrative and Sustainable Practices at CEFS Small Farm Unit - Tour

400 Old Smithfield Rd,Goldsboro NC 27530

05 May, 2023

Description

The Small Farm Unit grows a mixture of specialty fruits & vegetable production including annuals and perennials using organic and conservation practices. The farm uses integrative sustainable practices that achieve high profitability and environmental stewardship. Small Farm Unit manager, Willard Humphries will guides us through the small farm unit highlighting various practices used. Followed by Cooking Demo and lunch with Dr. Kathleen Liang - Dr. Liang, CEFS co-director will host our group and personally cook some of the vegetables grown on the farm and discuss the nutritional and medicinal benefits of the produce. Tour - 2 hours. Lunch 1.5 hours LIMITED TO 15 PEOPLE WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR: This is a working farm. You will be outdoors rain or shine. SunscreenSunhatClosed toe shoes (if you wear open toe shoes such as sandals, you will not be allowed on the tour)No children under 10. No pets. Transportation is available, but limited to 12 people. Depart at 7:30 am SHARP from Davidson County Cooperative Extension. ABOUT CEFS' Small Farm Unit CEFS’ Small Farm Unit (SFU) brings together the resources of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T), North Carolina State University (NC State), the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and other community partners to deliver research and demonstration of sustainable production and marketing practices to diverse audiences. The Small Farm Unit works in partnership with a network of farmers, researchers, educators, students, and other community members to develop and support a healthy, viable, community-based food system in Wayne County and beyond. The Small Farm Unit covers approximately 30 acres with a wide range of soil types, equipment, buildings, and educational focal points. The function of the unit is to model a systems-based approach within a whole farm context. Embedded within the farm design are ongoing research projects in systems rotation and other production topics relevant to small farm stakeholders. In a typical season, the Small Farm Unit produces up to 100 varieties of specialty fruits and vegetables targeted for niche markets and diverse consumers’ preferences. All farm produce is donated to local community organizations, food kitchens, and shelters. Farm transplants are grown in a greenhouse including several specialty plants. The Small Farm Unit also includes a 15-acre certified organic area and a model GAP (Good Agricultural Practices)-certified postharvest handling area.