Service-Based Learning at Longacre Farm
Longacre Farm is a 200-acre organic farm in the hills of Pennsylvania. At Longacre Farm, the staff is committed to an organic and sustainable lifestyle for themselves and for the animals. The farm runs largely on solar energy and it’s tractors operate on bio-diesel fuel. The students will learn every aspect of how the farm works, and get a hands-on perspective of most of the day-to-day routines. Students will learn how to: milk goats and make goat cheese, work with rescued horses, build raised garden beds from trees on the property, and care for all animals on the farm including chickens, pigs, and turkeys. Students will learn where their food comes from and the best practices of sustainable agriculture. All of the animals are raised “free range” and “organic”, meaning that they are not confined to a cage and no pesticides are used. These animals have freedom to roam on a large plot of land and despite being raised for slaughter, they lead a high quality life. The cows, chickens, pigs, and turkeys are rotated on plots of land, each having a specific and intentional impact on the land which ultimately results in fertile soil. This technique of farming has the least impact on the planet and uses the least amount of energy. In addition, students will participate in preparing meals for the whole group with the organic foods provided by the farm.
