Rocky Park Farm has a heart for students and a long-term goal to educate them about the benefits of farming for the earth, one’s lifestyle, and instilling the important role farming plays in providing for the community at large.

We present an open invitation to local school or homeschool organizations who would like to bring student groups for a tour of Rocky Park Farm. We curate educational and enjoyable farm tours to fit your curriculum and student goals/interests. Some of the topics we’ve introduced with past groups include:

  • The history and mission of Rocky Park Farm
  • The methodology of the farm (educational, natural, sustainable)
  • Our relationship with Maryville College and how that benefits all involved
  • Projects spearheaded by Maryville College student interns such as composting & aquaponic growing
  • Educational tour of our greenhouses, plus what and how we grow in each
  • Educational tour of our growing field beds and orchard, plus explanations of how we plan for each season
  • Family farming as a business
  • Q&A sessions where students and faculty can inquire of the farm staff what is on their minds

Rocky Park Farm also invites guest educators to come alongside our farm staff; one such educator is Dr. Julie Konkel, Ph.D, an Assistant Professor in Environmental Science at Maryville College and the Watershed Coordinator for Blount County, TN, and several additional faculty from Maryville College.

For more information or to speak with our farm’s owner, Dr. Jim Kirksey, to schedule an educational student tour, please call: (865) 250-3475

Our relationship with Maryville College

This collaboration, formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding between Rocky Park Farm and Maryville College, highlights the shared commitment to environmental stewardship and education. Rocky Park Farm is honored to be an extension of the classroom to Maryville College students and faculty. Not only Maryville College interns but also students across various disciplines are given the opportunity to learn further and deeper through hands-on farm experiences.

A prime example: Dr. Julie Konkel’s class utilized Rocky Park Farm to conduct a significant portion of their final exam. The farm’s rich history, mission of sustainability, and educational methodology provided a unique and practical learning experience. The class explored the farm’s operations, including composting techniques and the innovative Maryville College Aquaponic Growing Project. Guided tours of the greenhouse and field grow beds further deepened their understanding of sustainable agriculture practices.
Dr. Konkel’s leadership and expertise enriched the experience for students, fostering discussions about the farm’s connection to Maryville College and its broader impact on the community.

Dr. Julie Konkel, PhD, educates her Maryville College students on sustainable farm practices, such as composting,
during a visit to Rocky Park Farm in Friendsville, TN