2025 AAUFRC Intern Experience
By Mike Ribblett
UME Student Intern
This summer I had the privilege to work with and learn from Dave Myers and Brian Hufker at Anne Arundel Extension Urban Farming Research Clinic (AAUFRC). We focused on growing a multitude of crops that have high yields. Out of our plot plan, the most bountiful produce included tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, pumpkins, melons, green beans, and peppers. Out of everything we grew this summer, and after we conducted our research, we donated over 1000lbs to the Anne Arundel Foodbank. In addition to working in the AAUFRC, I was given the opportunity to collaborate with our local brewery, the Pherm Brewery Company, to create a local Maryland grown IPA. The AAUFRC donated 52 lbs of
blackberries, 12 lbs of Hops, and 36 lbs of jalapeno peppers to the Pherm Brewing Company, which were combined with locally grown and malted barley to create a 100% Maryland homage beer named, “Let My Inspiration Phlow”. It is still currently on tap and in cans at the Pherm Brewing Company.
Out of all the knowledge this summer the one portion I am most excited to build upon is my pesticide usage and
integrated pest management (IPM) experience. Dave was able to show me how to mix, clean, and very prescriptively spray pesticides to protect our plants on the farm. I will be taking this knowledge with me wherever I go, as part of my future in agriculture. I am eternally grateful for everything Dave and Brian shared with me this summer at the AAUFRC.
View Mikes Intern Exit Seminar Slides