coas.siu.edu | University Farms Research/Education Centers

At Southern, we believe very strongly in the motto, "learning by doing." Ensuring that students have a sound academic background when leaving the University is one of the main goals. Ensuring that faculty have a venue for performing research and expanding the knowledge base is also one of the main goals.

The University Farms and Research/Education Centers were created for students to put into practice the knowledge learned in the classroom, and for faculty to perform their research. Students are surrounded by opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research activities found in the many laboratories. The hands-on work helps ensure that academic knowledge is enhanced with the practical experience that employers seek when hiring employees.

The 2,000 acre, on-campus working farm system allows us to offer the best in traditional agricultural education and new research. University Farms has over 600 acres of row crop research and production; 120 acres hay production for our livestock; approximately 300 acres pasture for Animal Centers; and approximately 1,000 acrees of forest and watershed areas used for research and teaching.

The University Farms and Research/Education Centers comprise the following:

· Agronomy Center

· Beef Evaluation Center and Bull Test Station

· Beef Center

· Feed Mill

· Horticulture Center

· Metabolism and Physiology Center