The Farmhouse - Plymouth’s Post

We know the seeds of change must be viable, diverse, abundant, and adaptable, and we see the Farmland Commons as a localized and evolving seed bank that is beginning to germinate in communities across North America. We envision and work towards a future of new possibilities and outcomes for how farmland is held, accessed, and how tenure and equity are conveyed. We are working on cultivating and supporting these seeds of decommodified community-held farmland that conveys secure equitable tenure to farmers for regenerative food growing without harmful chemicals and in ways that connect with, engage, and feed communities. We are actively supporting and developing Farmland Commons in 15+ communities across North America with: • Aging and retiring landowning biodynamic, organic, and regenerative farmers wishing their life work can be a foundation for the next generation • Black, Brown, and Indigenous farming communities seeking secure land access and tenure for cultural refuge, food and medicine growing, and community equity and wealth creation • Agricultural nonprofits creating land legacy programs to protect and steward biodynamic, organic, and regenerative agriculture and to directly address land justice • Schools wanting to bring active agriculture and farmland into their communities, curriculum, and campuses • Land trusts wanting to go beyond conservation easements to do more to address land ownership, access, and tenure • Farmland owners wanting to create land legacy and endow the future of agrarian communities for regenerative food production and social justice And we are a resource providing guidance and assistance to communities, people, organizations interested in learning more and doing more around land transitions and legacy and creative land tenure strategies for the human relational disconnecting from and connecting to land. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 👆🏽 This is one small bit of what you missed if you didn't get our last newsletter. Sign up now to get our newsletters at the bottom of our website, and check out "Past Newsletters" under the "About" menu item on thefarmerslandtrust.org! #FarmlandCommons #seedsofchange #landlegacy #landaccess 

Landowners and tenant operators partner to implement on-the-ground conservation practices that benefit the land and ensure long-term value. At USAgriculture, we prioritize these relationships, recognizing their role in maintaining land stewardship and delivering stable financial outcomes. Next week, our Director of Asset Management, Kyle Maple, will share insights during the panel discussion, “Engaging Tenants to Drive Sustainability Forward,” at the Leading Harvest 2024 North America Summit. The conversation will explore how frameworks like Leading Harvest align tenant operations with sustainability goals, translating conservation efforts into measurable benefits for the environment and landowners alike. Event Details: When: December 10–12, 2024 Where: Seattle, WA Theme: Connecting Capital, Land, and Brands We look forward to connecting with you all at the Summit to discuss how sustainable farming practices can create shared value across the agricultural landscape. #Sustainability #AgricultureInvestments #LeadingHarvest #USAgriculture #FarmlandInvestment

Just like a thriving community, a successful farm business is built on strong relationships, shared knowledge, and mutual support. 🌾 Collaboration: Farmers, like community members, work together, sharing resources and expertise to overcome challenges and achieve common goals. 🤝 Education: Both farming and community building involve continuous learning and teaching. From sustainable practices to innovative solutions, we grow stronger together. 📚 Resilience: Just as communities support each other in tough times, a farm business thrives on the resilience and adaptability of its team. 🌟 Sustainability: A farm business, like a community, flourishes when it prioritizes sustainability, ensuring a healthy environment for future generations. 🌍 Connection: At the heart of both farming and community is the connection we build with each other and the land. These bonds are what make us stronger and more united. ❤️ Join us in celebrating the power of community in farming! Together, we can cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future. 🌿 #FarmLife #CommunityBuilding #SustainableAgriculture #GrowTogether #FarmBusiness #CommunitySupport

Regenerative farmers are stewards of the earth, and the decision-makers of our planet. The magic in what they do stems from interacting with the land daily to create and steward thriving ecosystems. With a deep commitment to soil health and biodiversity, they cultivate farms that teem with life—welcoming wildlife, insects, and vibrant ecosystems as essential partners in a thriving agricultural landscape. 🐝🌱 That’s why Top 50 Farmers is putting a spotlight on regenerative farmers who are building and tending to thriving ecosystems from the soil up. The Top 50 Farmers Recognition Program celebrates Europe’s regenerative farmers, providing access to mentorship, market access, financing, and peer networking to drive a movement that regenerates our land and food system, safeguarding nature and biodiversity too. This is where you come in! By nominating a farmer or applying directly yourself, you put a spotlight on a regenerative farm transforming their region. Deadline to apply is Dec 13. #RegenerativeFarming #Top50Farmers #FutureOfFood

Why host a regenerative agriculture event in NYC? 🤔 Despite its urban setting, New York City has a diverse agricultural industry, and is known around the world for its prowess as an economic hub. The city is home to leading research institutions and universities engaged in agricultural, environmental, and sustainability research, and has been politically proactive in addressing environmental concerns and setting ambitious climate goals. Regenerative agriculture advocates to influence both state and national policy, as well as inspire the private sector. NYC is a national center for both business and politics, which makes it the perfect home for a deep discussion on regenerative agriculture. At the end of the day, hosting a regenerative agriculture event in New York could leverage the state's agricultural diversity, environmental commitments, strategic location, and influential position to promote sustainable farming practices, engage a broad audience, and drive meaningful change towards sustainability and environmental resilience. #regenerativeagriculture #nycevents #regenerativefarming #nyc

As we approach the end of year 2024, I reflect on a journey that began in 1992— i dedicated on trees planting. This endeavor has not only been a personal mission but also a commitment to the environment and future generations. Today, the tree on my hands pulling the number stand 8,795 of the trees I planted on my own hands, just a stone’s throw away from my goal of 10,000. The Beginning: A Vision in 1992 In 1992, I was inspired by the fact that trees contribute positively to our planet. The vision was simple yet profound: to combat deforestation and promote biodiversity through reforestation efforts. With limited resources but abundant passion, I started my first planting in our family farms, where I planted orange which is still existing. The journey has not been without its challenges: Environmental Conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as droughts impacted survival rates of young saplings. Financial constraints: in some circumstances there is the need of financial support for a numbers of reasons such as purchasing seedlings or seeds, providing seedling protection as some of trees are palatable to livestock hence browsing become major challenge, watering etc. Community Engagement: Initially, there was skepticism about the impact of individual efforts on larger environmental issues. However, through education and outreach programs, I gradually garnered support from community members. Current Status (2024): As of now, with 8,795 trees planted, I am nearing my goal of 10,000. Each tree represents not just an ecological contribution but also stories of perseverance and community spirit. Looking Ahead: The Final Stretch With only 1,205 trees left to plant by the end of this year, I am more determined than ever. Plans are underway for several planting events in collaboration with local schools and environmental groups to engage more volunteers in this final push. I believe that achieving this goal will not only fulfill a personal dream but also inspire others to take action towards environmental stewardship. In conclusion, this journey has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, community involvement, and the power of one person’s dedication to making a difference. As we close out 2024, I look forward to celebrating this achievement while continuing to advocate for tree planting initiatives long into the future.

🌱 A Pitstop in Romsey, Victoria – Home of the Barefoot Investor! 💡 Today, I found myself in the charming town of Romsey—famous for being the stomping ground of Scott Pape, The Barefoot Investor. But instead of talking about financial freedom, I was on my way to help a client chart a course toward environmental sustainability with an on-farm carbon emissions plan. Farming and emissions reduction might not seem like the most obvious duo, but the opportunities to make a positive impact are enormous. Here are some of the practical solutions we explored: ✅ Planting trees: Not only do they help with carbon sequestration, but they also improve pasture biology, leading to healthier soils and happier livestock. ✅ Fencing off waterways and dams: This reduces contamination, improves animal health, and can even shorten turnoff times—because healthier animals grow faster. ✅ Reworking pasture mix: Swapping in lower methane-producing species is a simple, effective change that benefits both emissions and productivity. ✅ Considering solar power: Whether it’s renewable energy for the farm or solar-powered pumps, harnessing the sun can slash costs and emissions. ✅ Tweaking grazing practices: Shifting to rotational or sectional grazing can improve pasture health, reduce methane emissions, and optimize land use. It’s inspiring to see farmers not just growing food but also leading the way in climate solutions. And if my stop in Romsey has taught me anything, it’s that tackling carbon on the farm is like Scott Pape’s philosophy: it’s about making small, smart changes that add up to big results. What are some steps you or your industry are taking toward sustainability? Let’s start the conversation! 👩🌾🌏 #ProudlyMoore #MooreAustralia #RegionalVic #FarmAccounting #AccountingLife #Sustainability #Farming #CarbonReduction #RenewableEnergy #ClimateAction

It is my pleasure to share that I will be the keynote speaker for the upcoming 79th Soil and Water Conservation Society's International Annual Conference. As a Black woman farmer, landowner, environmentalist, and the founding CEO of Green Heffa Farms, I consider this to be an incredible honor that I’m eager to embrace. The theme of the conference is “Rising Together, Collaborative Conservation for All,” and it couldn’t resonate more with what we stand for at Green Heffa Farms. From day one, my mission has been to cultivate more than just medicinal plants and herbs for our wellness brand – it’s about fostering sustainability, building community, and leading with innovation and heart. I’ll be diving into my journey as an entrepreneurial and environmental leader, sharing insights and stories from the heart of Green Heffa Farms. We’ll talk about the unique challenges and triumphs of building my farm, the importance of sustainable farming practices, the necessity of leveling the planting field in conservation leadership, and how we can all rise together through collaboration and conservation. This keynote isn’t just about me – it’s about all of us who believe in the power of environmental stewardship. It’s about recognizing that we all have a role to play in creating a sustainable future and that our collective efforts can drive real change. To my fellow farmers, entrepreneurs, environmentalists, and dreamers – let’s continue to break down barriers, uplift each other, and create a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural landscape. Our world needs it. For more information, please visit https://lnkd.in/eFe_EmQC #GreenHeffaFarms #KeynoteSpeaker #SoilAndWaterConservation #RisingTogether #CollaborativeConservation #BlackWomenInAg #EntrepreneurialLeadership #SustainableAgriculture #foodsystem #organic #regenerativeagriculture #CommunityEmpowerment #FarmingForTheFuture #EnvironmentalStewardship

Lately, I’ve had several people ask, “What exactly are you doing?” Well, let me tell you—it’s been quite the journey over the last year! I’m working alongside Lacy Cotter Vardeman as the Director of Operations for Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA), a conservation nonprofit she founded years ago. We’ve recently rebranded, launched a new website, and even started a podcast! If you’d told me a few years ago that I’d be diving into conservation work, I would not believed it. But in 2019, a unique project researching industrial hemp for a landowner opened my eyes to different possibilities. It wasn’t necessarily about the hemp, but other opportunities and resources I was exposed to in that research. What struck me most is realizing how overwhelmed our communities are by the challenges we’re facing, particularly when it comes to something as vital as water. It often feels like we’re all racing to be the last ones to use up our resources, rather than focusing on how to best steward them. Quick fixes are tempting, but the real magic happens with small, layered solutions that bring lasting change. I’ve learned that I don’t need to wait for big, sweeping changes to do my part. Stewardship starts with what we have, and I’m committed to being resourceful with what’s in my hands—while bringing others along with me. So, what am I doing? I’m connecting with people who are making a difference, both big and small. I’m amplifying their voices, sharing their experiences, and hoping that, in some way, it helps others find solutions too. I am directing programs like restoring playa lakes and increasing our conservation workforce, bring awareness to policies that will leave things better for those that come behind me. Our website is evolving into a go-to resource for anyone—urban or rural who’s interested in conservation, education, and practical ways to protect our resources. Our podcast is really taking off, and every week we’re forming new partnerships and tackling new projects. It’s clear that these conversations matter, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a movement that’s addressing real needs in our communities. Stay tuned, because this is just the beginning! Visit our website or follow us on all the socials or listen to the podcast AND share! It is a small step you can make in stewarding our resources but it will make a difference. www.sara-conservation.com Podcast links are on the homepage! ❤️🙏🏻

As we nurture our green spaces, let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey of local farming and its impact on our communities. 🌱 **Local Farming Initiatives:** There's something truly special about knowing where our food comes from. By supporting local farmers, we're not just buying produce; we're investing in sustainable practices that restore the balance of our ecosystems. 🚜 **Sustainable Growth:** Innovative local farming methods are changing the game. From organic practices to vertical gardens, these initiatives showcase how tradition can blend with modern technology for a greener future. 🤝 **Community Connections:** Building relationships with local farmers means more than just supporting an economy; it's about cultivating a sense of community. Farmers' markets and local co-ops serve as gathering places, fostering connections among neighbors and strengthening our food culture. 🍽️ **Harvesting Together:** We all play a role in this journey. Whether you’re a consumer, a farmer, or a local advocate, each effort you put into promoting locally-sourced foods contributes to a healthier environment and economy. ✨ Let's celebrate local farming! Share your favorite farmers' market or local farm in the comments and let’s keep the conversation growing! #LocalFarming #Sustainability #CommunityImpact