Lessons from the Field— Reciprocity, Determination & Interdependence
Moments to share our work and uplift our farmers are always so valuable. This month, we hosted a field day in partnership with Marbleseed, an opportunity awarded to us as part of being named Marbleseed’s Changemaker of the Year. We joined with 70+ farmers, agricultural professionals, funders, and supporters to discuss community-based farming and regenerative agriculture. Being able to share our mission with so many passionate and like-minded people was so rewarding so keep reading to learn about our field day and biggest takeaways from this spectacular event.
Our farm manager, Alissa, gave a farm tour and overview of the businesses we facilitate, from our halal sheep to apiaries to vegetable production operations. As we toured the farm, we showcased the abundance and diversity of farm businesses we are able to support through our commons cohort, which largely eliminates all barriers of entry to farming since our shared economy provides the infrastructure, equipment, market connections, knowledge, and technical assistance.
To speak to the intricacies of joining our farmer cohort, three of our farmers gave presentations in their fields. Khalid Elhassan, member of the Sudanese Farming Group, highlighted his halal sheep operation and Sudanese grazing practices. In a similar vein, Tessa from W.T. farms presented on her grazing practices used in her cow pasture. Both Khalid and Tessa did a phenomenal job explaining how to use livestock productively while also improving soil health. Then, Erika gave a presentation on Mexican growing practices and discussed market access as an immigrant woman navigating a variety of Minnesota markets. It was an incredible discussion that wove together the determination, skillset, and networks necessary to enter into farming as a marginalized producer within a largely commercialized and conventional food system.
One of the biggest takeaways from this event was how enthusiastic folks were to broaden their understanding of the current advancements and challenges of small, regenerative farmers in our community. Sharing Our Roots is unique in our diversity of farm operations and commitment to restoring native ecosystem while empowering emerging farmers. Our innovative approach is not only viable, but replicable. Broadening our reach to educate and inspire others to uplift a new model of farming that is based in equity, stewardship, and the well-being of people, wildlife, & the planet is paramount to creating lasting change in our food system to ensure future generations have access to nutritious (and affordable) organic food, culturally-relevant plants, and healthy lands.
If you believe in our mission, please donate today. Every dollar you give promotes land access, especially for those historically excluded from our agricultural system. Together, we have the power to nourish healthy communities and ecosystems.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Sharing Our Roots relies on community donations to fund our work restoring land and providing immigrant, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ farmers with essential support. If you are able and inspired, please join us in our work to heal our lands and prepare emerging farmers by contributing a one-time or recurring donation. Thank you!
