OUR VISION

Demonstrating Sustainable Urban Agriculture

We operate an urban farm on public land using sustainable agricultural methods with the goal of demonstrating these methods for the farming community. We combine indigenous, traditional, and progressive agricultural strategies to improve yield, conserve water, improve soil tilth and fertility, and adapt to climate change. We collaborate with other farms and agencies to share information with underserved communities.

Providing Equitable Access to Grower Resources

We operate a Community Garden that welcomes underserved growers with resources and support in developing their skill sets. We operate a MicroFarm program, providing affordable access to urban farmland, education, and resources for dozens of small growers, who each operate on plots ranging from one eighth of an acre to two acres in size. We offer scholarships to Growers-in-need.

Providing Education in Sustainable Agriculture

We provide year-round education programs and special events that teach the community about sustainable and regenerative agriculture, organic gardening, climate resilience, food justice, nutrition, and biodiversity conservation. We train farmers of all ages and engage them in the process of farming on public land for the public good. We train interns in the interdisciplinary aspects of an agricultural non-profit.

Conserving Biodiversity

We plant field crops for wildlife and maintain year-round habitat including brush, hedgerow, and orchards. We deploy bee blocks, bat and owl houses.  We maintain a 22-year old pollinator garden, all with the goal of conserving biodiversity. We provide recreational viewing of native and migrating species in the Middle Rio Grande Valley.

Growing and Celebrating Our Diverse Farming Community

We host signature events that provide education to our community and funding for programs and projects aligned with our Purpose. These events celebrate our local agriculture, raise awareness of our unique heritage and connect our community to resources, experiences, and one another. We partner with folks who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color; with women, LGBTQIA+ and Disabled communities, refugee and immigrant communities, the neurodivergent, individuals in Recovery, families, and seniors, those with economic challenges, and organizations representing them. We participate in community events sponsored by other organizations that align with our Purpose.

OUR VALUES

Community

We are deeply committed to serving a vibrant and diverse community, through policies and practices which are inclusive and collaborative. We strive to foster an environment where every individual’s voice is valued, and a sense of belonging is instilled. We recognize that our collective strength surpasses individual efforts, both internally and within the broader community and that innovation is built through a variety of experiences and perspectives. We build trust through open and frequent communication, both within our organization and with our community at large, promoting lively dialogue, transparency, healing, and continuous improvement.

Education

Our organization’s ethos identifies education as a catalyst for individual and societal transformation. We strive to empower individuals through accessible and quality educational opportunities, while fostering a culture of continuous learning within our organization and the communities we impact. We recognize the power of knowledge to ignite curiosity, inspire creativity, and unlock the full potential of every learner.

Sustainability

Our dedication to sustainability extends to both social and environmental well-being. We strive to foster an organizational culture where we prioritize one another’s mental, physical, and emotional health, safety, family and community responsibilities, and ongoing personal development. We uplift the diverse communities we serve through enduring partnerships and programs prioritizing food justice and equitable access to resources. We actively engage in regenerative farming practices, conserving biodiversity, protecting natural resources, and addressing climate change for present and future generations.

Celebration

We celebrate our unique agricultural heritage, our community, and the achievements, milestones, and qualities of individuals within our organization. Through joyous expression and appreciation, we foster a positive and motivating atmosphere that recognizes failure as precursor to success and celebrates sincere attempts at personal and collective growth. Each celebration is an opportunity to strengthen our connections, expand our awareness, replenish our inspiration, and express gratitude.