In the News

Jefferson Farm And Gardens Near Completion
KOMU/Channel 8
Aug. 30, 2008
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By Kevin Lewis

COLUMBIA - After six years of work and just months from completion, a new agriculture learning center has project visionist Dr. Robert Myers excited.

"Well it's great to have a good turnout. I think we'll have 500 or more people out here today. You know it is just fun to see people enjoying the outdoor environment, seeing the animals, and some things growing here," said Dr. Myers.

It's an environment that meshes urban and rural lifestyles for both children and adults.

"We have a grandson who is interested in this kind of thing. We like to have experiences beyond what he is used to in the city," farm visitor, Phil Weeden.

Education is the central idea to this project, as the final piece to the puzzle will be a visitor education complex.

Growth in knowledge and agriculture are major themes on the farm, and with 67 acres and hundreds of trees and plants, there is plenty growing both on land and in the water.

A golf cart ride down to the seven acre pond reveals more colorful vegetatio, such as water canna, arrowhead, and even a cardinal flower for St. Louis Cardinal fans.

Jefferson Farm and Garden officials expect 30,000 visitors to come to the gardens.

10,000 of those expected visitors will be children on educational tours. The final showcase of the gardens for the season will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on September 27.