Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 36 : Spring 2018 | Page 27

To date, UMPI has raised $255,000 toward the overall project cost and encourages gifts of all sizes to help begin the next phase in supporting economic development within the agricultural sector. “Since we launched our Sustainable Agriculture program three years ago, we’ve seen growth in student interest and research projects that support potato and other local sectors,” Dr. Jason Johnston, Dean of UMPI’s College of Arts and Science, said. “As we launch a full program this fall, we are focusing on the agricultural science, business, and technology needs of modern agriculture. By also engaging local farmers and agribusiness professionals, we are preparing students through real, regional examples and boots-in-the-soil engagement in the practice of agriculture.” “We are incredibly pleased to announce that Don and Linda Zillman, past UMPI President and First Lady, have donated the lead naming gift of $100,000 toward our greenhouse project,” UMPI President Ray Rice said. “This is a wonderful gift that not only allows us to provide a high quality, hands-on learning laboratory but also serves as an important cornerstone to our new Agricultural Sciences and Agribusiness degree UMPI’s location in the heart of the premier agricultural program.” region of Maine and its proximity to the Aroostook Research Farm and Cooperative Extension make it After opening its doors to campus, The Zillman Family ideally situated to support education and research to Greenhouse will be used for various educational and enhance existing commercial agriculture and to develop research activities, including courses on plant biology, new agricultural opportunities. soil science, plant and crop science, and integrated pest management. Faculty will also host professional While the Agricultural Sciences and Agribusiness development workshops for training in techniques such Program will launch this Fall, construction for the as seedling production and grafting, and collaborate with greenhouse will begin as soon as funds are raised. community and state partners such as the University Debbie Roark, UMPI’s Executive Director for of Maine Cooperative Extension, Maine Farm Bureau, University Advancement, encourages the public to Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, make contributions toward the construction efforts. Future Farmers of America, Maine Farmland Trust, the Those who make contributions of $1,000 or more will Maine Potato Board, McCain Foods, and the Maine be included on a dedication plaque for the greenhouse. Sustainable Agriculture Association. “We are excited to launch the public phase of our Some key features of the greenhouse will include greenhouse construction project and so appreciative LED lighting, watering and ventilation systems, to the Zillmans for their generosity,” Debbie Roark, and an advanced climate control system and sensor Executive Director of University Advancement, said. capacity. The technology will help support UMPI’s “Giving is not just about making a donation, it’s about current research efforts such as disease management, making a difference. The Zillman Family Greenhouse soil fertility, and economic opportunities for Maine will serve our entire Aroostook County community, growers and agricultural producers. from college students and youth through seniors, as well as business and industry alike.” The greenhouse will serve as one of the major components—along with 60 acres of tillable land Anyone who wishes to donate to the greenhouse and laboratory research facilities—of UMPI’s new fundraising efforts or would like more information Agricultural Sciences and Agribusiness program. about the project should contact Dr. Roark at (207) 768- According to its mission, the program will serve students 9755 or [email protected] or Dr. Johnston at and working professionals by educating them in current [phone] or [email protected]. agricultural practices and supports the development and adoption of research-based approaches to improve agricu