Students Partner with Plantel to Grow Food

MRC Ag Farm classes joined forces with FFA students from Righetti, Santa Maria and Pioneer Valley High Schools partnered with Plantel to grow and harvest vegetables that were donated to local food banks and church pantries.

 

The students began the project when Plantel demonstrated its newest robot transplanter during Santa Barbara County Farm Day in September. The machine planted one acre of broccoli, cabbage and brussel sprouts at the MRC, showing students how technology is affecting agriculture.

 

Throughout the experience, students learned how to set up irrigation systems, cultivate, check for plant growth, weed, package and food safety.

 

The students harvested and donated about 100 boxes of vegetables.

 

“It was a great opportunity for our students to help grow crops from start to finish and benefit from the fruits of their labor,’’ said MRC Ag Teacher Steve Gambril.