By Andi Anderson
Ohio State University recently strengthened its role in agricultural education and innovation by hosting a visit focused on student farm development, specialty crop production, and controlled environment agriculture.
The visit provided an opportunity for university leaders and educators to exchange ideas, explore research facilities, and discuss future collaborations that can benefit students and the agricultural industry.
Petrus Langenhoven, Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of the Purdue Student Farm, visited The Ohio State University’s Department of Horticulture and Crop Science (HCS) on October 7-8. During his visit, he presented a seminar titled “Growing More Than Vegetables: What a Student Farm Contributes to the Land-Grant Mission.” The presentation highlighted how student farms can serve as valuable educational platforms that combine teaching, research, and Extension activities.
At Ohio State’s Columbus campus, participants explored the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex (CEARC), a facility dedicated to advancing modern crop production technologies. The visit also included a tour of the student farm at Waterman Farm, where discussions focused on operational management, student engagement, and educational programming. These conversations allowed university teams to compare successful practices and identify new ways to improve learning opportunities for students.
The exchange of ideas emphasized the growing importance of hands-on agricultural education. Student farms provide practical experiences that help students develop technical skills, understand crop production systems, and gain real-world knowledge that complements classroom learning. Such programs are increasingly important as agriculture adopts advanced technologies and innovative production methods.
Beyond Columbus, the visit extended to Ohio’s Wooster region. There, participants toured Tilmor’s manufacturing facility in Dalton, Ohio. Tilmor is recognized for producing equipment designed for small-scale and specialty crop growers. The company is particularly known for cultivating tractors, including the all-electric Super E model, and mechanical weeding equipment that can reduce dependence on herbicides and manual labor.
The visit also included a stop at Ohio State University’s Horticulture Unit 1 research campus in Wooster. This facility supports research efforts focused on horticulture, crop management, and specialty crop production, helping advance agricultural knowledge and sustainable growing practices.
The discussions generated interest in future cooperation between Purdue University and Ohio State University. Potential areas of collaboration include student farm programs, controlled environment agriculture, and specialty crop research. These partnerships can strengthen educational opportunities, encourage innovation, and support the next generation of agricultural professionals.
By bringing together educators, researchers, and industry experts, Ohio State continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing agricultural education and research.
The visit highlighted how collaboration between land-grant universities can create meaningful opportunities that benefit students, growers, and the broader agricultural community across the region.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, Education