Fiona Ma was impressed by her visit to University of California, Santa Cruz and its incredible Farm & Center for Agroecology.
Set across a breathtaking 2,000-acre natural landscape, this is the oldest university-based organic farm in the country—and still leading the way in innovation.
From cutting-edge research on soil health and microbial systems to exploring climate-resilient crops like prickly pear cactus, they are advancing sustainable agriculture in real, practical ways. Even more inspiring: their focus on developing lower-cost, accessible technology for small and regional farmers.
Fiona Ma met with members of the UC Santa Cruz Student Union Assembly at the Hay Barn—great to hear directly from student leaders about their priorities and vision for the future.
This is where science, sustainability, and community come together—training the next generation and strengthening our food systems from the ground up.


