WOODWARD, Okla. — Camp T.U.R.F. (Tomorrow’s Undergraduates Realizing the Future) at Oklahoma State University Extension introduces students to agriculture and careers in sustainability.
A portion of the summer camp program brought the group to Anichini-Moore Ranch & Farm, in Woodward, Oklahoma, which prides itself on raising heritage animals, producing heirloom fruits and vegetables, supporting local communities, and educating on ecosystem management and land restoration.
“The farm tour was designed to educate the kids about small farms, biodiversity and sustainability,” says Kathy Moore, owner of Anichini-Moore Ranch & Farm and an Administrative Council member of the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SSARE) program. “We wanted to inspire them and get them excited about real food, farms, conservation, soil, water, rainwater harvesting, composting and soil building.”
During the farm tour, the students were introduced to organic farming methods, composting and bioenergy — and how these agriculture practices play a part in soil building, erosion control and improved water quality. In addition, the students learned how the practices on the farm help support area communities by producing local foods.
