Lusscroft Farm facts for kids
Lusscroft Farm is a special place in Wantage Township, Sussex County, New Jersey. It started in 1914 as a dairy farm focused on science. A man named James Turner, who was a stockbroker, created it to find new and better ways to farm and produce milk. Later, in 1931, he gave the farm to the State of New Jersey. From 1931 to 1970, Rutgers University used it as an Agricultural Research Station to study farming.
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The History of Lusscroft Farm
How Lusscroft Farm Began
In 1914, a stockbroker named James Turner invested a lot of money, about $500,000, to start Lusscroft Farm. It was a large property, about 578 acres, in Wantage Township. His main goal was to create a perfect example of a dairy farm. He also wanted to use science to make farming more efficient and productive.
Lusscroft Farm and Rutgers University
In 1931, James Turner donated the entire farm, which had grown to 1,050 acres, along with its cattle and operations, to the State of New Jersey. He wanted it to be used as an agricultural research station. Cook College, which is part of Rutgers University, used the farm for important research. They studied animal husbandry (caring for farm animals), horticulture (growing plants), and forestry (managing forests). Rutgers continued research until 1970 and finally closed the facility in 1996.
Important Discoveries at Lusscroft Farm
The research done at Lusscroft Farm led to many new ideas and methods in farming. Scientists developed better ways to grow grass for animals. They also improved how to make ensilage, which is fermented feed for livestock. A very important discovery was the creation of artificial insemination techniques for dairy cows. This helped improve cattle breeding. They also developed better ways to test milk production to make sure the milk supply was safe.
Lusscroft Farm Today
Today, Lusscroft Farm is part of High Point State Park. A local non-profit group called the Sussex County Heritage and Agriculture Association helps manage it. They work with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The farm is now open to the public. It serves as an agricultural heritage center. Visitors can learn about farming history, enjoy outdoor activities, and understand how farming has changed over time.
