University Farm

Aerial view of a modern dairy farm with multiple buildings, vehicles, and equipment. The central structure has a large metal roof with cars and farm machinery parked in front. Surrounding the main building are smaller sheds, fenced areas with livestock, and white fencing outlining the property. In the background, there is a large pond bordered by green pastures and wooded areas, with additional farmland visible in the distance.
Rear view of a large green tractor with a yellow tank and attached planting equipment working in a freshly tilled field. The tractor is kicking up dust as it moves, creating a visible trail behind it. The field has evenly spaced rows, and the background features a dense line of green trees under a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds.

This 581-acre working farm features active livestock and horticultural production, making it possible for N.C. A&T to honor the land grant university mission of learning, discovery and engagement with the farming community.

Fulfilling that mission is crucial for North Carolina, where agriculture is worth $84 billion a year and is the state’s largest industry, employing more than 17 percent of the workforce.

The University Farm plays an important role in maintaining the viability of the agricultural industry. Here, we educate tomorrow’s agricultural professionals, research new agricultural products and practices, and advise farmers on methods to improve productivity.

What you will find here

The University Farm is a working, producing farm that raises crops and livestock, including dairy and beef cattle, poultry, swine, horses, meat goats and sheep. Students and faculty in the   College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences  use the farm for research and education.   Cooperative Extension  at N.C. A&T uses the farm to test and demonstrate new crops and farming practices before introducing them to the state’s farming community.

Feed crops for the farm’s livestock are raised here, as well as new vegetable and specialty crops. The farm is also the site of research on sustainable agriculture and natural resources conservation, including swine waste research and soil conservation.

Smart Farming

Promotional flyer for North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University highlighting smart farming technologies, including AI, robotics, and digital tools. The flyer features images of a green tractor with GPS and automated steering, and an automated milking system with robotic arms. Key text includes "Smart Farming: AI, Robotics, and Digital Technology," "Precision Ag Tools," and "Automated Milking System." The university's logo is at the bottom, with a description of its focus on agricultural advancements.
The N.C. Agricultural & Technical State University Farm is making key investments in precision technologies to increase food production resiliency and protect the environment. Drones, robotics, “smart” tractors and implements with sensors that can securely gather quality data all help us educate farmers, and students, about data-driven decision-making and efficient production. In the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, we’re bringing science and society one step closer together.
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Points of Pride

OUR WORKING FARM ADVANCES THE LAND-GRANT MISSION of teaching, research and out-reach. Fulfilling that mission is crucial for North Carolina, where agriculture is worth $91.8 billion a year and employs more than 17 percent of the workforce.

9

Units

581

Acres

24

Research Projects

17,000

Square-Foot Pavilion

View Comprehensive Impact Data for the University Farm

College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences - University Farm Overview:

  • Land-Grant Mission: The working farm advances teaching, research, and outreach. North Carolina agriculture is worth $91.8 billion annually and employs over 17% of the workforce.
  • Land & Research:
    • 581 acres of outdoor laboratory space for the CAES.
    • 14 acres are certified organic.
    • 24 active research projects.
  • Facilities & Infrastructure:
    • 17,000 square-foot pavilion.
    • Student and community gardens.
    • Currently developing a 15,000 square-foot Urban Food Complex.
  • Impact & Workforce:
    • 7,839 annual visitors.
    • 175 collective years of experience from 14 full-time employees.
  • Agricultural Units: 9 specialized units including swine, poultry, dairy, beef, sheep/goat, equine, field crops, horticulture, and environmental studies.

Contact

Research and Extension Farm Pavilion
N.C. A&T State University University Farm

3020 McConnell Rd
Greensboro NC 27401

Farm Office

Phone: (336) 398-8692

Pavilion events & farm tours

Phone: (336) 285-2360
Email: eccrawford@ncat.edu