Carol Pino Learning Farm
In an innovative transformation, Grain has taken a 1.5+ acre urban brownfield and transformed it into a lush living laboratory for Brooklyn public schools. Our work remediates a contaminated site adjacent to a Bergen Beach elementary school, inhibiting access to over 35 identified Soil, Ground Water and Vapor contaminants present. The brownfield is capped at the lower level and a vibrant living laboratory blossoms above.
Students engaged in curriculum at the Learning Farm can find field-based learning opportunities designed to engage preK-12 students. Hands on experience in a living laboratory increase students’ ability to engage in observation, inference and decision-making in sustainable and community specific ways.
The Learning Farm integrates clean fill soil, permeable pavers, small scale rainwater harvest, solar harvesting, composting of all organic waste and over 70 trees. Though the largest benefit to the environment may be the experiences that shape the world view and lifestyle of the student participants.
