Land Commons

We are excited to embark on a journey with New Roots Community Farm who are leading the movement to establish common farmland in Appalachia. This multi-farm and multi-stakeholder cooperative effort is building a more just and diverse agricultural system in the New River Gorge region by addressing one of the greatest challenges faced by beginning farmers -- secure, affordable, equitable access to land. In partnership with the West Virginia Agrarian Commons, they are increasing the number and viability of local farms by holding land in trust for community benefit. Through their cooperation with Turnrow Appalachian Farm Collective, farmers are able to effectively develop access to markets and viable livelihoods by reducing risks associated with land access and external competitive pressures of large agri-food systems.

New Roots grows a diversity in vegetables and also provides demonstrations and training for farmers while supporting efforts to grow retail and wholesale markets for farmers to sell their products. Two of the New Roots Farmers contributed to the early development of FIRSTHAND cooperative while students at WVU.

Through the sale of our Commons Blossom Blend in Spring 2021 we raised $2,400 in support of this initiative to secure permanent protection and stewardship of the 82 acre Whitlock farm in Fayetteville, West Virginia, as the home of New Roots Community Farm and the founding farm of the West Virginia Agrarian Commons. Stay posted for the next fundraiser in Fall 2021.