Big things are growing at Crabtree Farms, a vital space for promoting urban farm-based education + sustainable agriculture in Chattanooga for the past 25 years. To further support its mission, the farm announced a new strategic plan..

With the help of Bridge Innovate and funding from United Way of Greater Chattanooga, this plan will introduce initiatives over the span of the next few years.

Launching

Mentorship | The Emerging Farmer Mentorship Program will host four farmers from “seed to market” production + provide free land access, materials, and support.
Staff | A new Community Food & Land Access Coordinator position will be added to help oversee the expansion of programming.

Expanding or changing

Community garden | Building 24 raised garden beds over the next three years — two-thirds of available beds will still be offered to residents of Clifton Hills + surrounding neighborhoods.
Food donations | Increasing Community Fridge + partner organization distribution donations by at least 20%.
Fresh goods for SNAP | Increasing nutritional locally grown food for SNAP recipients through engagement programs + outreach.
Plant sales | Expanding the diversity of seasonal plants to offer more natives, perennials + at-home food production.
Annual 100 Dinner + Auction | Increasing fundraising goals + event sponsorship and local engagement opportunities.
Sales + distribution model | Reimagining to maximize effectiveness — goods will still be sold through the farm's stand, Main Street Farmers Market + select wholesale accounts.

Continuing

Education | Formalizing and enhancing on + off-farm educational offerings.
Conservation | Maintaining the partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Serviceto ensure long-term health of the farm's 22 acres.
Local support | Offering a helping hand to local farmers through collaborations + cooperative marketing and selling.

Pro tip: Stay tuned for updates, programming, and more involving this plan by signing up for the farm's newsletter.