Invest in the Future of Farming
Preparing Agriculturists for a Sustainable Future
The Center for Organic and Sustainable Agriculture (COSA) at Alfred State facilitates learning, conducts applied research, and engages communities in the practice of sustainable food and energy production.
One goal of COSA is to train and develop entrepreneurs to sustainably manage land, to provide healthy food, water, and other natural resources, and to successfully build profitable enterprises.
COSA also works with various related campus projects such as the Center for Renewable Energy and the Green Team to improve the sustainability of the Alfred State campus.
Current Projects
Working closely with the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York (NOFA-NY), COSA has led the process of converting 225 acres of the College’s farmland adjacent to the Alfred campus to certified organic hay and pasture production. A groundbreaking ceremony took place summer 2011 for the College’s new certified organic dairy and a ribbon cutting is planned for Oct. 13, 2012. COSA will also manage 300 acres of recently acquired land near Groveland, NY, part of which is undergoing transition to organic vegetable, forage, and grain production.
With support from the Animal Welfare Institute, COSA initiated a free-range pastured poultry project on the College Farm. Alfred State agriculture students, along with members of the community, receive instruction and hands-on experience in humane and sustainable livestock production. Other livestock species at Alfred State managed in accordance with Animal Welfare Institute standards include sheep, alpaca, and horses.
Through COSA’s efforts, a wide range of associates are engaged with Alfred State faculty members and students to innovate, evaluate, and disseminate new management practices that advance food system sustainability. Current associates include:
- Cornell
- Penn State
- Local, state, and federal agencies
- The Animal Welfare Institute
- NOFA
- Area farmers
Future Projects &Programs
Planned programs include on-farm mentorships, a new farm incubator initiative, community gardens, and course work in organic farming systems.
The Supply Chain Project intends to link Upstate New York producers and artisans with urban markets. The COSA Food Preparation Center will allow members of the community to develop high quality value-added products for local markets.
COSA welcomes farmers, students, practitioners, and members of the public to learn and participate in our various programs. Stay informed of our events and developments.
How to Make a Contribution
Contributions of any amount will be accepted and greatly appreciated. You may use our online giving form (choose Institute for Sustainability/COSA from the drop down menu). Or, checks made payable to Alfred State College Development Fund may be sent to:
Office of Institutional Advancement
Alfred State
10 Upper College Drive
Alfred, NY 14802
For additional information, or to make special arrangements, please contact:
Terry Tucker, PhD
Dean, School of Arts & Sciences
Phone: (607) 587-3621
E-mail: tuckertw@alfredstate.edu
