Join us as we turn our focus to the people who grow the food we eat, and social justice issues connected with training, start up costs, and access to land for beginning farmers. We will travel to Hollister, CA to visit with Oya Organics, Golden Rule Organics, and Avalos Organic Farm to discuss challenges and opportunities for beginning farmers with special attention to women, young people, and people of color. On this tour we will explore historical inequality with access to land and current USDA Beginning Farmer programs. We will be joined by a representative of the Agriculture and Land-Based Training Association (ALBA) who will discuss educational and business opportunities for farm workers and aspiring farmers. We’ll learn about programs that support beginning farmers, like Market Match, which benefits the farmers we visit and increases access to fresh food for low-income families.
This tour is free for Ecology Center members! A bus will take us to and from Berkeley. Beverages and snacks will be offered throughout the day, including produce from the farms. Bring your own bag lunch for a picnic.
Not a member, but interested in coming on this tour? Sign up for a membership, and the tour is included along with a full year of other member benefits. You can contact us to sign up for membership over the phone, in person, or make a membership donation here.
Space is limited. RSVP by Friday, April 17th to leah@ecologycenter.org, or call (510) 548-2220 x226. Pick up and drop off will be at 2530 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley. This tour runs rain or shine. We hope to have you there!
