SEEDS

SEEDS is a grassroots group in Nogales that is building capacity to use culturally based traditional practices to expand local organic food production and leadership in our community. We use a Train the Trainer model so that we can take the knowledge and skills we learn and share them with community members young and old. And in this way, we propel the diffusion of agriculture and leadership knowledge while creating opportunities for young adults in Nogales.

We are in the final phase of planting and building SEEDS Farm, a project envisioned by local young adults who participated in a sustainable design course. Set to open in the fall, the purpose of the farm is to build a space where community members, families, teachers and students can learn how to grow their own fruits, vegetables, harvest water, make compost, and attract pollinators.

To develop SEEDS Farm local young adults trained in sustainable agriculture, which includes the ethics and principles of permaculture design, passive and active water harvesting practices, the components of soil health and composting, seasonal and companion planting, and the importance of pollinators and their habitat.

Working as a team and in community, we also trained in understanding personal leadership styles, popular education practices, effective group work structures and public speaking.

As Farm Leaders we are building capacity to:
· Manage and operate SEEDS Farm programming
· Build strength around our school garden programs
· Launch our apprenticeship program so that we can keep expanding leadership and local food production.