another day at the farm…

Last Saturday was another busy day at the farm. We worked with a number of volunteers to clear the trees that had grown over the road leading to the barn.

The farm was mostly left unused by the property owners for the last 7-10 years. It is incredible to see how nature takes back what belongs to it. The property kept beef cattle and was home to a number of horses. There are multiple fences and gates leading back to the barn where our students will be learning. Trees have grown through metal fencing, palm trees have sprouted in the middle of what used to be a dirt road, and long vines need to be cut back to make the area safe and accessible for our youngest students.

With help of volunteers our board of directors worked hard to preserve the unique beauty that is natural Florida while creating a space that is welcoming and safe for students to come and learn.

With all the extra hands at work the day’s goals were expanded to remove a few small trees from the area next to the barn where we will put a green house that will house our aquaponics system. For every tree that was removed a new tree will be planted in our food forest this weekend. The permaculture project is high on the list and after receiving a donation of 6 fruit trees we are excited to start planting.

It was great to have a few of our older students come help. While our program may not be open to students before these kids graduate seeing them smiling and working together to prepare something for their younger classmates was encouraging.

The nature around the barn is so beautiful. We found signs of wildlife everywhere, not just the farm dogs (see Mack showing us around in the picture below). There are so many learning opportunities even in a simple walk around the property. While the amount of work that needs to be done is overwhelming at times the future is full of excitement and imagining our students adventuring around and learning in nature is the motivating force behind this project.

We are still raising money for our well and electric campaign. If you are able to donate towards our cause we would be so grateful! Thank you!!! CLICK HERE TO DONATE or use the form below.