Tierra Miguel Foundation
Mission
To encourage the protection, preservation and conservation of farmland …healing for the earth and humanity through agriculture, education
and healing arts.
History
A committed group seeking to implement the TMF mission sought property
for nine years finally locating the Pauma Valley Ranch in 2000. The non-profit (501 (c) (3) founded in 1999, leased 85 organic acres
in Pauma Valley in 2000, and began its Community Supported Agriculture
Program and agricultural education programs for youngsters and adults,
also 2000.
The Foundation was formed specifically to encourage conscious involvement
by the public with the need to conserve farmland, promote sustainable
organic agriculture, educate future farmers, and help children reconnect
to the earth and develop understanding of food production. The Farm
is a demonstration farm for the advancement of organic agriculture,
research in organic methods and sustainability.
The Foundation has received grants from the State and Federal governments
to acquire and preserve the 85 acres in agriculture in perpetuity (2003
grants, 2004 escrow closing.) The total amount of grants given was $1.91
million, with $1.43 to be returned to the Farmland Conservancy Program
by 2008. TMF accomplished its goal of acquiring the property through
these grants and now will fundraise in order to return these funds to
the State for its use in purchasing other farmland. It is hoped that
the CRN will recognize the need for and value of the CA Farmland Conservancy
Program grants and assist TMF with these efforts. Fallbrook Land Conservancy is TMF’s esteemed collaborator and
monitor of the Agricultural Conservation Easement now placed on the
Farm acreage.
Who is involved?
TMF has an Executive Director, Office Administrator, Education Director
and Farm personnel who operate the Farm (currently 9.) TMF Board members
actively participate in varying programs and development activities.
CSA members numbering over 300 participate in projects throughout the
year. The Advisory Board is active in developing programs and fundraising.
TMF is active throughout Southern California and has a national and
international presence because of its educational and research programs
in organics and biodynamics. School programs over the last four years
are estimated to have impacted over 30,000 children, some visiting the
Farm, some involved with varying programs.
Projects
TMF Farm has a monthly Volunteer Day the first Saturday of each month
during which visitors come, tour and pitch in on farm tasks. Large groups
often come, bus loads of folks from all over Southern California and
state and national farm groups. Estimated number of such visitors to date, more than 5000.
Conservation activities are in place but will be expanded with the
advent of funding for programs relating to the San Luis Rey River and
Watershed. The MSCP and habitat issues are being considered now for projects for
the future. Native plant development and protection programs, nature
walks and ecologically centered education are in varying planning stages.
The Foundation is working with the Native American interests and health
concerns of the local populations through ongoing projects. These projects
work to encourage healthy nutrition and gardening, among other things.
(See website for more information www.tierramiguelfarm.org
Goals
Our plan includes the Farm purchasing the land which the Foundation
owns within the next four years and expanding both the Foundation and
Farm educational programs to increase understanding about the need to
conserve farmland. All current programs are expected to continue with
more research activity anticipated.
Why we joined the Conservation Resources Network
TMF sees the SDCRN as an important step towards San Diego County’s
awareness of the need to save open space including farmland. Time is
short. Collaborative efforts are necessary to accomplish meaningful
action, legislation if need be and funding mechanisms for these efforts.
Together much can be done.
How are we unique?
TMF has the only viable farmland conserved with an agricultural conservation
easement south of Santa Barbara County. TMF received the first Fee Title
Grant in history of California for purchase of farmland. TMF Farm is
located adjacent to the San Luis River and because of organic production
contributes to the health of the watershed, increase in birdlife and
other flora and fauna.
Business Partnerships?
We received a grant from US Bank.
Education Partnerships?
Many different partnerships including grants for food and also for school
visits.
Internship Opportunities:
Yes and they will be expanding. We’re working with a number of
universities. We have had 13 international interns on site for 3 to
12 months.
Wish List
Fundraising
Outreach
Board development
Environmental advisory services
Contact for more information:
Beth Ann Levendoski
President/CEO
Tierra Miguel Foundation
P.O. Box 1065
Pauma Valley, CA 92061
(760)742-4213 FAX 760-742-1151
bethlevendoski@tierramiguelfarm.org www.tierramiguelfarm.org
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