Controlled Environment Food Production Research Complex
The Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex (CEARC) opened in September 2022 and provides a platform for interdisciplinary research at the nexus of horticulture and crop science, engineering, entomology, plant pathology, food science, computer science, and human nutrition/health. The $35.8 million project was constructed at Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory and offers dynamic platforms for hands-on teaching, outreach, and engagement activities.
Additional Details
By more accurately controlling environmental factors such as temperature and light, researchers can explore new methods for improving nutrient density and flavor in vegetables and fruits. Large quantities of produce grown under standardized conditions make possible clinical studies examining the efficacy of enhanced nutritional value in the human diet. Advanced sensing technologies optimize harvesting, with integrated machine learning and integrated pest management practices to promote more precise control of insects and pests. The CEARC is an interactive communication hub between departments and stakeholders, enabling collaborations and workshops. It empowers The Ohio State University to:
enhance food security in urban and peri-urban settings.
facilitate globally applicable food production research at various scales with commercially relevant technologies.
provide the foundation for expanded research in modern plant breeding and high tunnel production.
Project Timeline
- 2017
- BoT Design ApprovalJune 2017DesignDecember 2017 – April 20202019
- BoT Construction ApprovalNovember 20192020
- ConstructionSeptember 2020 – August 20222022
- Facility OpeningSeptember 2022
Project Team
Project Manager
Morgan Richardson
Project Accountant
Jasmine Myles
Consultants
Erdy McHenry
Construction Manager
Corna / Kokosing
From a seedling to a flower, a space has fully bloomed on the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory located west of Kenny Road. The Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex (CEARC) is now open.
The $34.8 million project provides a platform for interdisciplinary research at the nexus...
Construction crews are finishing work on t he College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex (CEARC) at the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory . Teams are working on final finishes in the head house, which includes laying down carpet, painting and installing...
The Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex (CEARC), located on the grounds of the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory, is 75% complete. The facility, the first of its kind in the United States, consists of a head house, a research greenhouse and a production greenhouse and will be a premier...