Gael Roots Community Farm
Iris Fen Gillingham
Fall 2024
NY
The Farm
Gael Roots Community Farm is a 150-acre nonprofit farm offering agriculture education programs and working on food access issues. We host students and are preparing the land to grow vegetables directly for the school cafeteria and a “pay what you can” farmstand. We raise Shetland and Icelandic sheep, and Scottish Highland cows, and grow vegetables, herbs, and dye plants.
The Project Funded
The For Farmers Grant will enable us to hold a workshop to educate consumers about agricultural certification labels, such as USDA Organic, Real Organic, and regenerative etc. The event will clarify key certifications vs buzzwords, explain their impact on farming practices, and highlight the importance of supporting local, sustainable farms. The workshop will feature discussions with farmers and experts in the agricultural field. This is a workshop for consumers to learn how to be responsible buyers and to understand what is in their food.
Project Impact
Participants will gain practical knowledge of agricultural certifications, empowering informed shopping choices. They’ll develop a deeper connection with local farmers and their practices, enhancing community support for sustainable agriculture. This workshop will support in strengthening food security, foster resilience, and promote a more informed, supportive local food system. The workshop can be replicated regionally so will have a ripple effect that will not only support our farm and local farm community but others as well.
