New Mexico State University
ER-T2-2: Organic Garden

Student Centered Field Laboratory (SCFL) at NMSU College of College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES): The Student Centered Field Lab (SCFL) is a three-acre farm centered on the main campus of New Mexico State University. The mission of the SCFL is to facilitate experiential learning in the plant and environmental sciences fields, including agronomy and horticulture, soil and environmental sciences, agro-ecosystem management, sustainable soil management, and crop production. The SCFL was established in the spring of 2012 and serves as a hub of hands-on learning for NMSU students. The mission of the SCFL is to provide experiential learning opportunities and a hands-on educational facility for NMSU students, faculty, staff and the local community in the exploration of organic and sustainable agricultural systems that are applicable to New Mexico farms. Objectives of the SCFL: 1. Explore sustainable agricultural systems through the production of vegetables, small fruits, flowers, herbs and other crops using sustainable and economically viable practices. 2. Promote education and research in organic agriculture by creating new learning opportunities. 3. Support the education of NMSU students by providing: a) Hands on experience in sustainable farming. b) An opportunity to develop interpersonal and effective communication skills. c) A mechanism for participation in community outreach. d) Exposure to holistic learning and critical thinking. e) An environment that will require group interaction, cooperation and facilitation. f) Promote the consumption of local foods and encourage a healthful, well-balanced diet. g) Increase the visibility of the College of ACES research, education, and extension programs. Through our Hotel Restaurant Tourism Management (HRTM) program we have a cafe where the students learn to prepare food and serve. Food from the vegetable plot supplies vegetables to 100 West Café, composting the leftovers, and using the compost to enrich the soil in the SCFL veggie plot. Full circle!

See composting credit