The Importance of Furman Farm in our larger Furman Community

Just a short walk from the center of Furman’s main campus is a place where students, faculty, and community members can contribute directly to our university’s sustainability goals. In addition to being a place where we can grow our own food, Furman Farm is also a classroom, a gathering place, and a living system that we have cultivated right on Furman’s campus.

My name is Hannah Rowan and I’m a senior at Furman University studying Sustainability Science and Data Analytics. This year, I am working as the Student Assistant Farm Manager at Furman Farm where, alongside Bruce Adams, I help oversee daily farm operations, manage a team of 10-15 student employees, and support educational programs that connect our community with sustainable agriculture.

One of the most meaningful parts of my work is managing our student farm crew. Every day, our team works together towards the success of our closed-loop farm system. Prior farm experience is not required to start at Furman Farm. Something that makes our place unique is that we give each student the opportunity to learn and grow in their role. Over time, the farm becomes a place where students can work, collaborate, and learn from each other while actively contributing to the sustainable food goals of our campus.

At the farm, we rely on a variety of organic growing methods that prioritize soil health and balance.

Techniques like composting, lasagna gardening, and hugelkultur help maintain healthy soil without the use of synthetic or harmful chemicals. These methods support the productivity of Furman Farm and provide opportunities for students and community members to learn about alternative approaches to growing food.

What makes Furman Farm especially meaningful is the role it plays within the larger Furman community. It’s unique for a working farm to be so closely integrated into student life, academics, and sustainability goals. Our farm is used regularly for research, class visits, volunteer opportunities, workshops, and so much more. Connections are created every day between food, people, and the surrounding environment.

Working at Furman Farm with Bruce Adams has deepened my understanding of sustainable food systems while also strengthening my leadership skills. Most importantly, it has shown me how vital these spaces are for bringing communities together around shared goals of environmental stewardship and education. Sustainability is something we can practice every day through the way we consider our land systems, food, and communities.