Darr College of Agriculture graduate students, Scott Cooley and Korey Harper developed a hydroponics system and germination system for the Bear Pantry in Fall 2020. In addition to designing the systems, these students trained the Bear Pantry staff on maintenance and food production.
These systems allow the Bear Pantry to provide consistent fresh produce to MSU community members in need. Leafy greens are currently being grown and distributed. Bear Pantry members can request fresh produce while shopping in person or filling out an online order form.
The hydroponics system is already popular amongst Bear pantry visitors. One comment left by a student said: “Love the freshly grown greens!” This is one of many ways the William H. Darr College of Agriculture supports the Bear Pantry’s mission to reduce food insecurity.