Centers and Projects

The University Farm is home to several hands-on learning projects and specialized centers that support student education, faculty research, and industry collaboration. These programs reflect our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.

Irrigation Training Facility

Grants from the Bureau of Reclamation for personnel and infrastructure, support from the California State University, Chico College of Agriculture, and grants from the California Public Utilities Commission have funded the development of a demonstration SCADA system, an irrigation training facility (ITF), and a mediated classroom at the University Farm. These facilities were created to support Northern California water districts to implement conservation plans. The location of this facility in the heart of the Sacramento Valley makes it easily accessible to irrigation district personnel. This facility was developed with assistance and cooperation from of the Irrigation Training and Research Center (ITRC) at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and the Center for Irrigation Technology (CIT), California State University, Fresno. The project remains closely allied with ITRC.

One of the goals of developing this facility is to support the adoption of new technologies in water measurement and control that will lead to water conservation. By providing a local facility, local training opportunities, and technical support in Chico it is hoped that Northern California water districts will adopt new water conservation technologies. The facility at the University Farm is unique in that it incorporates a demonstration site where various water measurement technologies can be demonstrated. Installation on the 800 acre farm allows the flexibility to demonstrate under field conditions (e.g. demonstrate water flow measurement in unlined ditches, or in field turnouts) as well as the controlled conditions of the demonstration facility.

Irrigation system evaluations for growers in federal water districts are provided free of charge.

Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems (CRARS)

A research and outreach center focused on advancing regenerative farming practices that improve soil health, water retention, and climate resilience.

About Regenerative Agriculture on the Farm

At the Chico State University Farm, regenerative agriculture is more than a concept—it’s a living, learning environment where students gain hands-on experience with ecological farming practices.

Real-World Methods

Across the farm’s orchards, pastures, and crop fields, students work alongside faculty to implement real-world techniques like:

• adaptive grazing
• cover cropping
• compost application
• reduced tillage

These methods aren’t just taught in the classroom—they’re put into practice daily, helping students develop the skills needed to manage resilient and productive agricultural systems.

Applied Approach

The farm’s Organic Vegetable Unit exemplifies this applied approach. Student crews grow certified organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers using regenerative principles such as soil biodiversity, rotation, and compost enrichment. The OVP supplies campus dining halls and a CSA program, while also supporting food security through donations to the Hungry Wildcat Pantry.

Additional student-run projects on the farm include carbon sequestration trials, pollinator habitat design, and pasture management, all contributing to soil health, climate-smart agriculture, and career-ready training.

This student-focused, experiential model complements—but is distinct from—the broader research and outreach conducted by the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems (CRARS), also based at Chico State. While the Center leads multi-county initiatives and policy-engaged research, the University Farm offers an immersive setting for students to apply what they learn in real time.