This week, CREA fellows had the opportunity to visit the San Antonio Food Bank’s (SAFB) Mission San Juan Farm, a remarkable project that combines regenerative agriculture, community engagement, and food security. Our visit, led by Mitch Hagney, Director of Food Sustainability at SAFB, introduced the fellows to this unique farm's operations and its critical role in supporting the food bank’s mission to combat hunger in Southwest Texas.
Located on the historic grounds of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mission San Juan Capistrano, the farm spans 45 acres and grows a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. What sets this farm apart is its focus on providing fresh, locally grown produce to the underserved communities in San Antonio and surrounding counties. The farm is essential for supplying nutritious food that supplements the often non-perishable items distributed through traditional food bank channels. From tomatoes and peppers to beans and leafy greens, the farm’s crops help meet the growing demand for healthier food options, all while adhering to regenerative farming practices.
The Mission San Juan Farm is also deeply rooted in the region’s agricultural history. The site has been farmed since the 18th century, when Spanish missionaries introduced agriculture to support the local community and trade with nearby settlements. The SAFB continues this legacy, but with a modern twist, by incorporating sustainable practices and engaging local residents in the process. In addition to organic farming methods, the farm emphasizes water conservation and soil health, ensuring that its operations remain environmentally responsible.
During the tour, Mitch Hagney shared with us how the farm strives to integrate indigenous farming techniques, particularly those used by the Native American populations who cultivated the land centuries before the Spanish missions. These techniques include water harvesting methods and planting strategies that maximize crop yield in arid environments, critical practices for farming in Texas’ often unpredictable climate. This blend of traditional knowledge with contemporary regenerative agriculture creates a unique, innovative system that not only feeds the community but also educates visitors on the importance of preserving these ancient methods.
Joining us on this visit was renowned ethnobotanist Gary Nabhan, whose expertise in regenerative farming and indigenous agricultural practices added a new layer of insight to our experience. Nabhan is known for his groundbreaking research in desert agriculture, and he shared highlights from his book, "Growing Food in a Hotter, Drier Land". The book explores strategies for growing food in regions experiencing climate change-induced drought and extreme heat, drawing on centuries-old practices from indigenous cultures. Nabhan’s work advocates for the resilience of these traditional methods, which are increasingly relevant in today’s changing climate. His presence on the tour helped underscore the farm's importance in showcasing regenerative solutions to food insecurity in regions like South Texas.
The tour concluded with a look at the farm’s future, particularly the upcoming opportunities for CREA fellows and interns. SAFB plans to expand the farm’s educational outreach, offering hands-on internships that allow students to work directly with crops, learn about sustainable farming, and contribute to the food bank’s mission. Interns will have the chance to participate in all aspects of the farm’s operations, from planting and harvesting to managing irrigation systems and experimenting with new sustainable techniques. These internships will offer invaluable experience for anyone interested in food security, sustainability, and community development.
In all, our visit to the Mission San Juan Farm was a profound learning experience for the CREA fellows. It illuminated the connections between agriculture, history, and regeneration, while offering a real-world example of how local, organic food production can address the complex challenges of hunger and climate change. The farm is not only a source of nourishment for those in need but also a living laboratory for students, volunteers, and community members committed to building a healthier, more regenerative future.
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