Corvallis Teens Cultivate Community Through Urban Farming
A group of high school students in Corvallis, Oregon, is gaining recognition for their innovative approach to urban farming. The students at the College Hill Alternative Program manage a farm that offers fresh produce and eggs, creating a unique community hub in the neighborhood. Their farm stand, located on Northwest 33rd Street, opens every Friday at 10 a.m., attracting eager locals who line up for farm-fresh offerings.
The students maintain a flock of chickens to supply eggs for their farm stand, but demand often outstrips supply. Residents have learned to arrive early to ensure they can purchase eggs and a variety of vegetables, such as cucumbers and kale. Waylon McDaniels, one of the students involved, noted that many customers enjoy socializing while waiting. “They often come early and stand around and talk,” he said, highlighting the community aspect of the initiative.
The Urban Farm program is now in its 14th year and typically enrolls around 15 students during the school year, although this number drops to eight in the summer months. During this period, students are paid for their work, providing a sense of responsibility and real-world experience. Holly Raab, one of the teachers, emphasized the educational benefits of the program, stating, “It’s a great learning experience. They continue their education not only through traditional classroom instruction but also hands-on experience.”
Students learn a variety of subjects through the lens of agriculture, including English, math, and business skills. They also engage in producing value-added products like granola, jam, and pesto. This comprehensive approach equips them with practical skills essential for future employment. “We try to give them skills they’ll use in the future,” Raab added.
For many students, the farm represents their first job opportunity. Reverie Webb, another student, expressed his preference for this hands-on learning environment, saying, “I didn’t like being in a building for six hours.” McDaniels echoed this sentiment, noting his aspiration to run his own business in the future.
The program also incorporates construction skills, preparing students for various challenges they may face in the workforce. Kelly Locey, a spokesperson for the Corvallis School District, explained how practical skills are integrated into the curriculum. “You might have to look at a piece of machinery that’s not working, and someone might not be able to come out and fix it in the next three days,” Locey said, illustrating the problem-solving skills students develop.
Environmental education is particularly significant in today’s climate-conscious society. Eva Wolfe, a teacher and ecologist, has observed that many students find a sense of belonging at the farm. “A number of students have told me, ‘This is the place I do real things,'” she remarked. Wolfe believes that the farm offers more than just agricultural education; it fosters a supportive community where students can thrive.
As environmental policies fluctuate at the federal level, Wolfe finds purpose in guiding students through challenges. “You feel like you’re making a difference,” she noted. “Everything is going wrong, but we can do things to make it better.”
The College Hill Urban Farm not only provides fresh produce but also cultivates a sense of community among residents and students alike. With its unique approach to education and sustainability, the program exemplifies how urban farming can have a lasting impact on local communities.
