What We Do
The Rock Creek Learning Garden is an educational garden promoting interdisciplinary academic achievement, leadership development, and sustainable food systems through experiential education and lifelong learning opportunities. A curricular tool integrated into many academic disciplines on campus, the Garden serves as a living classroom for many classes. With 3.6 acres, a wide variety of plants, growing techniques, soil systems, and produce, we are host to a variety of activities, including classes, events, field trips, and research. The garden is a vital hub for health, wellness, and a connection to our environment.
Food and Harvest
Since the Garden’s inception in 2006, it has generated consistently increasing harvests measured by both weight and by crop variety. In 2016, the Garden harvest exceeded 8,850 pounds of food and included 208 distinct varieties of produce. Crops include carrots, tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, grapes, beets, winter squash, apples, popcorn, arugula, kiwi, parsley, oregano, spinach, blueberries, radishes, basil, and more. Produce is harvested from April through October. Much of the produce is donated directly to garden volunteers and/or the Panther Pantry.
Research
We encourage students who would like to do research in our gardens! Get your hands dirty and expand your mind!
