Conservation and Innovation at Any Scale: Two Farms Make it Work

The Sand County Foundation Land Ethic Mentorship Program invites you to learn from these innovative farmers in Georgia.

This Land Ethic Mentorship field day will focus on conservation practices and resources that can be used in an urban setting, on small land holdings, and on mid-sized farms. Practices include creating pollinator habitat, planting cover crops, utilizing hydroponic systems, integrating agroforestry, and managing for soil health.

Ina Braxton and Hillery Goodgame are practicing innovative, regenerative, climate smart agriculture. They are both Black women and beginning farmers who have successfully utilized available resources to achieve their farming goals. They will offer innovative models and strategies for other farmers regardless of scale. Ina Braxton's suburban farm utilizes hoop houses and hydroponics to effectively utilize her backyard space. Hillery Goodgame is expanding the agroforestry practices on her 74 acre organic farm. Both farms are finding ways to feed their communities with nutrient dense foods that are sustainably raised. Discussions will cover different federal and state programs both farmers have utilized, as well as the innovative partnerships they have formed.

This event is designed for historically underserved farmers who are beginning, veteran, Black, Brown, Indigenous, limited resource, or have physical or cognitive disabilities. Travel stipends and financial support are available.

If you do not identify as a historically underserved farmer, but would like to participate, we would encourage you to make a donation to help cover the costs for this event. Suggested donation = $35.00.

The Land Ethic Mentorship Program is a free program funded by a 2022 NRCS Conservation Outreach: Equity through Cooperative Agreements Grant. It is designed to support beginning, veteran, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource farmers through peer learning, mentorship, field days, webinars, and conference scholarships. Enroll in mentorship program here: https://sandcountyfoundation.org/our-work/wildlife-habitat/land-ethic-mentorship

Additional support provided by Farm Credit Associations of Georgia.