Ford Motor Company and the University of Tennessee announced a new partnership for “a stream mitigation and restoration agreement” that will focus on water streams located on the University’s Lone Oaks Farm.
Lone Oaks Farm is located in West Tennessee and serves as a 4-H and science, technology, education, and math (STEM) education center for K-12 students.
The property is undergoing development projects to expand its reach to students throughout the state.
“Every year, UTIA provides valuable life skills as well as STEM education opportunities to nearly 112,000 students across Tennessee,” said UT President Randy Boyd. “Ford’s investment in Lone Oaks will ensure our 4-H programs will be able to expand STEM education to Tennessee students for years to come.”
The new partnership expands the company’s investment in the state. Previously, the organization committed $5.6 billion to develop a 3,600-acre campus called Blue Oval City, which will hold an electric vehicle and battery manufacturing facility.
In fact, the new project is connected to the development. According to a release from the company, federal law requires developers to offset any environmental impacts due to new buildings and construction. Because of the size and scope of Blue Oval City, Ford was required to make substantial investments in this area.
The project will allow the company “to meet its regulatory requirements while also benefiting the entire region through funding STEM education and 4-H Youth Development at Lone Oaks.”
In total, the vehicle manufacturer is providing $16.5 million.
“The vision for Lone Oaks Farm includes introducing young people to agriculture and conservation through STEM education programs. We are extremely excited to partner with Ford and support both their sustainability goals and the university’s and community’s education goals,” added Ben West, director of strategic partnerships with UTIA. “This investment will provide quality, hands-on education programs for students throughout the region for decades to come.”
— — —
Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Ford Sign” by Phillip Pessar. CC BY 2.0. Background Photo “Ayres Hall at University of Tennessee, Knoxville” by Bubbahotepblues. CC BY-SA 4.0.
