Variety of produce and herbs sold at Tuesday Farm Stands. Photo submitted

Grow food, grow a community: Local non-profit provides fresh produce and food education

March 17, 2022March 23, 2022 Editor

Co-directors Jessie and Leslie in front of Honor System Fridge.

Lost Sierra Food Project (LSFP), a local non-profit organization that seeks to increase local food access and food education, is gearing up for its 2022 season. For those of you who don’t already know, LSFP has a community and production farm, Rugged Roots, which is located in Quincy on Hwy 70 across from Gansner Airfield. The project has strong local partnerships which enables it to provide successful educational and job training programs on the farm for all ages!

The organization is run by co-directors, Jessie Mazar and Leslie Pace, along with their Board of Directors (Hannah Hepner, Mandy Beatty, Susan Payne, Sarena Barker, Megan Mansfield, Inge Stock and Samantha Rick). This year they will be working on the farm with their recently hired Farm Manager Natasha Holland, their GrizzlyCorps Fellow Conny Rios Escobar, Feather River College and Plumas Charter School interns, and many amazing volunteers.

LSFP is committed to providing nutritious, local produce for all members of the community. From June 14th through October 4th, the project will be hosting Tuesday Farm Stands from 5 – 7 p.m. , where a range of payment methods are accepted: CalFresh, CalWORKs, Farm Bucks, and cash. For veterans, elders in need of food assistance, low-income residents, or individuals who identify as food insecure, FREE Farm Bucks are available! Contact [email protected] for more information.

In addition to Tuesday Farm Stands, you can access farm fresh produce 7 days a week via the Honor System Fridge! Simply arrive at the Rugged Roots Farm fridge, choose what produce you’d like to take, and let them know if you’re using Farm Bucks or cash. Instructions will also be available on site next to the fridge.

Are you interested in supporting or getting involved with LSFP? Show up in early May on Tuesday through Thursday mornings to volunteer on the farm! You can donate to LSFP or purchase your 2022 season Farm Bucks online or by sending a check to 429 Main St. Suite B. Quincy, CA 95971.

There are many great events planned for the 2022 season. To kick off the first Tuesday Farm Stand at Rugged Roots on June 14, from 5 – 7 p.m., there will be a community event – Dancin’ in the Dirt! Not only will they be selling produce, but this event will include farm tours, silk screening, live music, food tasting. Stay tuned for information on work parties, themed Tuesday Farm Stand events, and exciting fundraisers!

LSFP invites all community members to visit the Rugged Roots Farm this 2022 season!