Designing and Implementing a Regenerative Food System for the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department
Jasmine Gibson, MHS Presentation
Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 3:00 pm
(Under the direction of Ms. Anne Spafford, Chair)

Location: 121 Kilgore / Hybrid
Join Zoom Meeting:  https://ncsu.zoom.us/j/91320465449?pwd=QYn8e9WqmYvuaP3LwJFQ9DskaJvBTv.1
Meeting ID: 913 2046 5449
Passcode: 117479

 Gibson.Abstr.pdf

Abstract:
Located between the two Biological and Agricultural Engineering (BAE) department buildings is a small green space with a history of fertile soil that produced an array of wild and intentional vegetation and momentary green thumbs that took care of them. Over time, graduate students and volunteer community members have expressed interest in a working green space for Biological and Agricultural Engineers. However, previous aspirations of longevity were hindered by a lack of commitment from the community and proper succession planning. This project takes on another attempt to revive the BAE garden through plant design and planning, community engagement via stakeholder meetings, workshops, and student projects, and the development of a management and longevity handbook.

This project is driven and inspired by my advocacy for more equitable representation in agricultural food systems and the national need to increase the output of transformative research in regenerative agriculture. This conveniently located demonstration garden is intended to be utilized as a nexus learning system for sustainable and regenerative land stewardship. It supports the implementation of transformative research related to the existing sustainability goals of the BAE department and North Carolina State University. Through in-class and hands-on workshops and other communication and engagement methods, student-led initiatives in GIS mapping, structural building, and irrigation design have supported and enhanced this project. Student-led engagement with this demonstration garden has also resulted in a shift in broader perspectives on agricultural cultures, sustainable land stewardship, and production analysis specific to small and minority specialty growers. This project benefits the community and provides invaluable educational opportunities for BAE students, enhancing their understanding of the field and preparing them for future careers in extension and education, consultation, land cultivation, community engagement, and program planning.