Researching & Learning on the Farm
Since its founding on March 3, 1896, SC State University has been at the forefront of advancing agriculture with the integration of practical technologies.
For its first 75 years, the university, through its public service program, offered demonstrations and provided research-based information on enhancing the productivity of agriculture in South Carolina. The state’s small farmers, most of them minority and rural landowners, were recipients of these invaluable training and resources.
Now, 50 years since the institution last owned and operated a farm, SC State 1890 Research & Extension deepens the university’s agricultural roots with the establishment of a new research and demonstration farm.
Located in Elloree, SC, the farm features over 200 acres, 2 center pivots, and drip irrigation, and has nearly 9,900 total sq. ft of facilities, including a farm manager residence, hay barn, high tunnel houses and large equipment shed.
Current programs include 40 acres of hay production demonstration, perennial peanut, coastal Bermuda grass production, and various research projects, including industrial hemp, chickpea, Climate-Smart, and precision agriculture.