About
The Vassar College community and Poughkeepsie area residents now utilize the 527 acre farm and ecological preserve in a variety of ways.The Ecological Preserve is an invaluable resource for Vassar scientists. Vassar faculty and students conduct ecological research in the fields, forests, and in the Priscilla Bullitt Collins Field Station. The field station was built in 1995 on the ecological preserve and is used to study natural history, ecology, botany, and earth science.
The Exploring Science at Vassar Farm program brings local elementary school children to the field station for hands-on lessons about nature and science. It also gives Vassar students who are interested in science education hands-on experience teaching second- and third-graders. Since its development in 1983, 35,000 children have participated in the program.
Several Vassar College and high school athletic teams utilize the fields on the farm and the trails on the preserve. Among others, the Vassar cross-country and rugby teams use the farm for both practice and competition.
The Community Gardens are available to community members on a first-come, first-served basis for a nominal fee. There are currently 120 plots available. Gardeners are required to follow three simple rules: garden organically, bring your own hose (but unhook it when you leave), and build your own fence.
Vassar Farm and Ecological Preserve also hosts other organizations, including:
The Poughkeepsie Farm Project, a member-supported organic farm, leases ten acres from Vassar College and grows vegetables for 300 members, the Poughkeepsie Farmers’ Market, and for local soup kitchens and shelters.
The Ralph Waterman Bird Club of Dutchess County, a group of about 400 members is dedicated to the observation, study, and conservation of birds and other wildlife. This club offers field trips throughout Dutchess County and regularly visits the preserve.
Greenway Environmental Services produces compost for farms, urban gardens, and municipalities in the Hudson Valley.