You run across people doing the very first mission on a created character. It's deemed a public space. I guess the very first time you come out to The Divide and see other guardians help you kill the walker brings a sense of awe. It makes the world feel alive. It's a nice touch compared to D1 where you were completely alone for the mission. In terms of farming, yes. You can. The tank drops a chest every time it's defeated. Nothing but blue items ever comes out of it, though.