The Farm at Davidson
The College Farm offers fresh, naturally grown, local produce to the Davidson College community through the college's Dining Services operation.
The farm is a stand-alone, business-based unit of the college.
We engage Davidson students, faculty, and staff to enhance educational opportunities and create a collaborative and innovative environment for curricular and co-curricular activities that support local farming.
Located on Grey Road in Davidson, our initial production is situated on a three-plus-acre site on land known as McIntosh Farm. In 2008, the college purchased a total of 109 acres from the McIntosh family.
The farm uses organic practices as well as integrated pest management in vegetable production. This involves using exclusively organic-certified inputs, planting cover crops to promote soil health, and timing applications strategically to minimize negative environmental impact. We have two high tunnels that allow us to extend our growing season and are giving new life to an old greenhouse from the biology department.
Profile Marisa Wilson '18
The Farm at Davidson teaches students about sustainable agriculture and provides them with hands-on training in natural farming techniques. Another benefit: farm work can reduce stress, enhance focus and sharpen mental clarity, as described by Marisa Wilson '18.
Fresh Produce
The Farm at Davidson boasts more than 100 acres of historical farmland; the farm's current production is situated on a three-acre site. Throughout the year, the farm utilizes crop rotation and cover cropping to supply the college's dining services.
Building Community
There are many opportunities on the farm for volunteers, work-study students, and interns. It's a fun, hands-on way to learn about sustainable agriculture while serving your community.
Student Mentoring
The farm's work-study students acquire a range of skills, from guiding the transformation from seed to plant, to the careful handling of vegetables post-harvest on their way to Vail Commons. An experiential learning environment, the farm fosters collaboration, initiative, and innovation.
Visit Us
We are located at 1603 Grey Road in Davidson. Please call 704-575-4915 to schedule a visit.