Space for Study
In academic programs, students not only prepare food, but will analyze variables that affect flavor, texture and appearance. Students also examine agricultural factors such as soils, plants, fungi and insects. The Lab is is both a fully equipped kitchen and has extensive lab equipment. The lab is supplied with instruments like microscopes, pH meters, refractometers, as well as induction cooktops and a commercial convection oven.
Students working and studying on the adjacent Organic Farm process their harvest, producing items like salad mixes, fruit preserves, kimchi, and pesto. These value-added products can then be sold at the on-campus farm stand.
If you are doing independent study around food systems, you may also be able to work in the laboratory as part of your studies.
Sustainably Designed by Students
- The building is sited to protect solar access for existing gardens, built with high-efficiency practices to reduce energy use.
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood products are used throughout the structure. This wood is harvested from forests that are responsibly managed.
- Landscaping features both native and edible plants.
- The driving and parking areas are permeable surfaces, an alternative to typical paving that helps increase infiltration and decrease flooding and run-off issues.
- Covered bike storage encourages alternative transportation.
- The light fixtures are shielded to reduce light pollution and protect the night-time sky.
- Recycling and compost stations decrease the waste contributions of the facility.
Space for Community
The Sustainable Agriculture Lab is a shared space for students and our Evergreen community to come together. Campus and community events with an agricultural or food systems focus are often hosted here, with workshops like honey-making and cider-pressing.
The fall Harvest Festival and alumni event, Return to Evergreen, are great examples of how the our community engages with the Lab.