Sun Times

Farm blends old practices with new technology

October 21, 2008

Solar panels and yurts dot the traditional landscape at the Dickinson College Farm, which next year will seek certification as an organic farm.

At Dickinson's farm in Boiling Springs, there is more sprouting from the soil than flowers, herbs and more than 20 varieties of produce. During the last year, solar panels also have sprung up among the farm's traditional crops. The panels harvest the sun to heat water and produce electricity, enabling the farm to extend its growing season, lower its operational costs and soften the college's environmental impact.

The farm showcased its progressive methods on Oct. 4 when it participated in the American Solar Energy Society's National Solar Tour. The tour offers participants the opportunity to visit homes and buildings to see how their neighbors are using solar energy, green building practices and other sustainable technologies to reduce their monthly utility bills and help tackle climate change.

During Dickinson's tour visitors saw the 5.25-kilowatt solar electric system that powers the barn and returns unused electricity to the power lines; a solar hot-water system that heats a greenhouse and also will heat a second greenhouse that is under construction; a 1,600-watt utility solar electric system for the farm house and an 800-watt solar electric system that powers batteries to provide energy for the farm interns' yurts—circular, tent-like residences traditionally used by nomads in Central Asia. Also on view was farm equipment that runs on college-made biodiesel fuel created with used cooking oil collected from the dining hall and local restaurants.

More than 80 people visited the farm during the tour guided by Andrew Kamerosky '10. According to Kamerosky, who majors in environmental science and geology, the most common question posed by attendees was how they could implement these practices in their own homes.

Since Dickinson began its farming operation in Boiling Springs two years ago, neither pesticides nor synthetic chemicals have been used. After three years of such practices, the college can and will apply for status as a certified organic farm.