FBEA CONFERENCE

Designing a Continuum of Programs that Get Real Work Done

Presented by: Meg Connolly, Weir River Farm, Hingham, MA

Holly Hannaway, Appleton Farms, Ipswich, MA

More than 100 properties statewide

"The Trustees of Reservations preserves,

for public use and enjoyment, properties of

exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological

value in Massachusetts."

THE TRUSTEES

Nonprofit102 properties100,00 members60,00 acres of protected land150 regular full-time staff, 30 part-time staff350-400 seasonal positions1000’s of volunteers

WHY FARMING?

We are leaders in farmland preservation in Massachusetts.

Why farming?

Agriculture further distinguishes the Trustees in the crowded land trust & conservation organization marketplace.

Why Farming?

Farms attract people from all walks of life - especially multi-generational families.

Why Farming?

Our farms generate tremendous support:

Income DonationsVolunteerism Membership

Why Farming?

Other PropertyRevenueAgriculture

Agriculture generates 14.2 % of Trustees property revenue

Farms have a broad and diverse constituency.

Why Farming?

Farms foster community and invite partnerships

Why Farming?

Agriculture helps us tell the whole story of our properties.

Why Farming?

Farms are engaging and lead to action.

Why Farming?

WHERE?

Weir River Farm, Hingham

Powisset Farm, Dover

Appleton Farms, Ipswich/Hamilton

Eastover Farm, Rochester

Cherry Hill Farm/Bradley Estate, Canton

Westport Farm, Westport

Cornell Farm, Dartmouth

Nuestras Raices, Holyoke

Old Manse, Concord

EDUCATION & ENGAGEMENT

PLACE IS OUR CONTEXT

ENGAGEMENT IS OUR STRATEGY

STEWARDSHIP IS OUR GOAL

Program Guiding Principles Engages VOLUNTEERS Supports REAL WORK of the farm Connects individuals to PLACE HANDS-ON Embraces DIVERSITY Inspires ACTION Fosters respect & STEWARDSHIP Promotes SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE Reduces NATURE DEFICIT

WEIR RIVER FARM

An artist’s inspiration..

…educates a new generation.

From humble beginnings

The Weir River Farm was the 87th property of TTOR. Opened in 2000, the goal of this property was to utilize our barnyard to attract young families to the organization.

Traditional Models Thrive

School Programs bring an average of 3,000 visitors per year.

Vacation Programs including February, April and Summer.

Preschool Family Programs that welcome children as young as age 2.

Afterschool Programs for ages 5-10 years.

Birthday parties

A Fundamental shift from “agro-tainment” to real engagement

-

30 families involved in program

4H’ers are vital volunteers on farm, caring for a flock of chickens and assist farm manager with sheep care.

Bring our farm to new audiences.

4-H returns to Hingham

Additional 4-H support

Summer Camp Programs 8 weeks of programs age 4

through 12 years. increasing levels of

responsibility incorporating “work” into every

day

Volunteerism as the Program

Volunteer program for ages 13 through 18 years

Most are “graduates” of our summer programs

Donated over 850 hours

Staffing

Superintendant7 properties

Education Coordinator20/40 hours

Farm Manager20/30 hours

MaintenanceTech

40 hours

Summer Seasonalx3

Market GardenManager20 hours

Summer Seasonal X1 40 hoursX2 20 hours

Reaching Adult Volunteers

Eating is educational

Using our farm products as means to educate new audiences

Currently selling eggs, beef, pork and expanding to lamb

Expansion of volunteer led, food-based workshops

Market Garden Project 2009

Moving our community forward

50 Share CSA 2010 Encouraging and

simplifying ways for more people to eat local food

Connecting with other local farmers and creation of FANSS