Tillamook, OR – In 2019, Food Roots and its partners embarked on a visionary journey to support the next generation of farmers. Inspired by the dreams of their founder, Shelly Bowe, they constructed two hoop houses, laying the groundwork for a farmer incubator program designed to cultivate new farming enterprises. Circe’s Garden, owned and operated by Patrick and Courtney Mortensen, became the inaugural farm to benefit from this innovative initiative. This month, the Mortensens celebrate a significant milestone as they take over the lease, marking a new chapter in their farming journey.
Patrick Mortensen reflects on their experience with deep appreciation: “I can’t overemphasize how valuable this farm incubator project has been to our business. It gave us the space and runway to grow, learn, fail, learn, and grow some more. I honestly don’t know how we could have done it without this project.”
A Changing Landscape for Farmers
The importance of initiatives like the Food Roots Farm Incubator Project cannot be overstated, especially against the backdrop of a shifting agricultural landscape. In recent decades, there has been a notable decline in the number of small farms and young farmers, with more land being consolidated under large agribusinesses. According to the 2017 USDA Census of Agriculture, the number of farms in the United States decreased by 3.2% from 2012 to 2017, with small family farms being particularly affected. Additionally, the average age of farmers has been steadily increasing, reaching 57.5 years in 2017.
Preserving Farming Knowledge
For rural communities, preserving farming knowledge is not just about maintaining a livelihood; it’s about sustaining a way of life that has been passed down through generations. Farming is deeply intertwined with cultural heritage and community identity. Without new farmers to continue these traditions, there’s a risk of losing valuable agricultural knowledge and practices. Programs like the Food Roots Farm Incubator play a crucial role in ensuring that farming expertise is retained and passed on to the next generation.
Creating Learning Spaces
Having dedicated spaces for people to learn about farming and share information is vital for fostering a robust agricultural community. These learning environments provide aspiring farmers with the hands-on experience and mentorship they need to succeed. They also serve as hubs for innovation, where new techniques and sustainable practices can be developed and tested. The success of Circe’s Garden is a testament to the power of such programs in nurturing new farmers and supporting them through the inevitable challenges of starting a farming business.
About Food Roots
Founded in 2006, Food Roots is a nonprofit organization based in Tillamook, Oregon. The organization was established by a group of passionate individuals, including Shelly Bowe, with a mission to cultivate a vibrant local food system. Food Roots works to connect local farmers, food producers, and consumers through a variety of programs aimed at enhancing food security, education, and economic development.
Some of their key initiatives include:
- Farm to School Program: Educating students about local food systems and providing access to healthy, locally-grown produce.
- Community Table: A market that offers local products directly to consumers, fostering a direct connection between producers and the community.
- Micro-Enterprise Development: Supporting small food businesses with resources and training to help them thrive.
The Food Roots Farm Incubator Project is one of the organization’s flagship programs, exemplifying their commitment to nurturing the next generation of farmers and ensuring the sustainability of local agriculture.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Patrick and Courtney Mortensen take over the lease for Circe’s Garden, their success story serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved with the right support and resources. The Food Roots Farm Incubator Project has not only provided them with the space to grow but also the confidence to continue their farming journey. In doing so, they are helping to preserve the rich agricultural heritage of Tillamook and contribute to a thriving local food system.
For more information about Food Roots and their programs, visit Food Roots.