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Vertical Farm at Illinois State University

Vertical Farm at Illinois State University

 The Vertical Farm at Illinois State University officially opened May 1, 2025, to serve as an example of sustainable urban agriculture and train and prepare students for careers in agriculture and horticulture specialty crop production. The facility is a joint partnership among the College of Applied Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, and Office of Sustainability that will serve as a demonstration site for local community groups, schools, and business entrepreneurs.

The Vertical Farm uses a repurposed shipping container with an enclosed, controlled environment to grow plants year-round. The 40-foot-by-8-foot (320 square feet) container is designed using a vertical hydroponic growing system with a recirculating nutrient solution and light-emitting diode (LED) lighting system. The unit will be able to grow 4,600 plants, production equivalent to 1-2 acres of field production, using 95% less water or approximately 5 gallons of water per day. 

Details

  • Completion date: Opened on May 1, 2025
  • Cost: $200,000
  • Location: adjacent to the Office of Sustainability at 305 North School Street
Several leaders cut the ceremonial ribbon for the Vertical Farm at Illinois State University
President Aondover Tarhule speaks in front of a crowd of people celebrating the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Vertical Farm at Illinois State University.
Dr. David Kopsell leads a tour, showcasing tools within the Vertical Farm at Illinois State University.
Dr. David Kopsell leads a tour, showcasing the workbench at the Vertical Farm at Illinois State University.
Image of the inside of the Freight Farm
Image of the inside of the Freight Farm
Image of the inside of the Freight Farm

Quote from the Interim Chair

This project is about more than just growing food. It’s about harnessing the power of technology to reduce our dependence on traditional, resource-demanding agricultural methods. Vertical farming technology can be used to address some of the biggest challenges we face, including food security, environmental responsibility, and sustainability."

Dr. Aondover Tarhule, President, Illinois State University

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