to take livestock-centered classes and earn a livestock emphasis . The farm also provides training opportunities for non-agriculture majors , such as criminal justice students who use the farm for law enforcement training and welding students who gain hands-on experience repairing equipment .
Riverhawk Farm collaborates with multiple entities , supplying chipping potatoes to Mister Bees Potato Chips , providing fresh produce for WVU Extension ’ s FARMacy program and participating in mock farmers ’ markets through the SNAP-ed grant .
The farm is committed to enhancing the state ’ s agricultural production and offers students diverse educational experiences .
Looking ahead , Riverhawk Farm plans to expand its facilities , including building a new livestock facility and beekeeping and honey processing center .
“ WVUP Agriculture hopes to continue putting that extra dollar in producers ’ pockets and make farming , producing and ranching career paths that many want to pursue ,” Riggs says .
Shepherd University ’ s farm in Shepherdstown , WV , is divided into specialized areas . The primary section , enclosed by a deer-exclusion fence , is dedicated to diversified vegetable production , along with flowers , berries , tree fruits and perennials . It also features a handicapaccessible community garden , prioritizing veteran farmers .
Dr . Brooke Comer , assistant professor of environmental science and sustainable agriculture at Shepherd University , says the farm ’ s primary mission is education and explains that it serves as a demonstration space for many different courses at the university .
The farm supports Shepherd ’ s Bachelor of Science in environmental studies with a concentration in sustainable agriculture and resource management , as well as the Sustainable Food Production and Agricultural Entrepreneurship programs . Additionally , it serves as a research space for both professors and students with ongoing projects in sustainable agriculture .
“ The space enhances learning through hands-on components of labs and practical experience or places where students can engage in other ways ,” Comer says . “ For students not in a science field ,
courses like environmental science , which can be taken as core curriculum , expose them to the farm and help them learn about the food system . The farm also offers work opportunities in field production and greenhouse operations or for business students in administration and accounting .”
Shepherd ’ s farm significantly contributes to the community through its agricultural business incubator program , which helps new farmers grow their businesses . It partners with entities like
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Time together becomes more precious everyday . Stroll our historic downtown or explore country roads full of lovingly preserved manors . Try a wine flight , a beer flight , or a spirits flight prior to enjoying a delicious meal . Take in an outdoor concert or a live performance at our historic theater . All just a short drive away in Berkeley County , West Virginia .
Shepherdstown Shares and the Charles Town Farmers Market to make fresh , local produce accessible to residents .
The incubator farm received funding from the Small Business Administration thanks to the support of Senator Joe Manchin and Senator Shelly Moore Capito . The farm continues to evolve , with a new building , heated greenhouse and rotation grazing area underway , alongside efforts to obtain a Good Agricultural Practices certification . •
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