Urban Agriculture & Food Production

In Urban Agriculture and Food Production, students learn the operations of agribusiness through this capstone farm-to-fork, work-based learning course. Students are introduced to agribusiness growing and production from small cottage industries to large scale food production. Students will explore the future of the urban agriculture industry by using hydroponic, aquaponic, and aeroponic growing systems; the growing industries of fish farming and beekeeping; and urban growing and value added products. 

Students will use new technologies in agriculture including robotics, automation, and data science, as well as emerging industries in food production and environmental sustainability. Discussion will take place around year-round agribusiness opportunities in urban and suburban areas, and how students can impact food access and food quality in our communities. 

Please contact the course teacher, Eric Conn, with questions.

Course Details

The Urban Agriculture and Food Production capstone course is part of the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources pathway. The course is housed at Southwest High School, and open to students in grades 11 and 12 from all GBAPS high schools. Students must have taken one previous agri-science course prior to enrolling.

Middle School Career Exploration Courses

• Plant Science - Grades 7 or 8
• Natural Resources - Grades 7 or 8
• Animal Science - Grades 7 or 8

Intro-Level Courses

• Landscape, Floriculture & Greenhouse - Grades 9-12
• Wisconsin Natural Resources - Grades 9-12
• Biotechnology - Grades 10-12
• Small Animal Vet Science - Grades 9-12

Specialized Courses

• Advanced Plant Science & Design DC - Grades 11-12
• Global Conservation Perspectives - Grades 9-12
• Sustainable Agriculture DC - Grades 11-12
• Large Animal Vet Science DC - Grades 10-12

Capstone Courses

• Youth Apprenticeship - Grades 11-12
• Urban Agriculture and Food Production DC - Grades 11-12
• Advanced Veterinary & Animal Sciences - Grades 11-12

Additional Recommended Courses for 4-Year Programs

• AP Biology or IB Biology
• AP Chemistry or IB Chemistry
• Environmental Science DC