Revive the Roots is an impressive project for many reasons, of which their gorgeous crops are only one. On the 23-acre plot of land they rehabilitated and steward in Smithfield, RI, the Revive the Roots team fosters diverse landscapes and programs to gather, create, learn about, and grow food in the community. The walking trails and gardens at Mowry Commons are free to visit and open to the public 365 days a year. (pro tip: their mixed greens are beautiful! Their CSA interest form is open for 2023 — take a peek here.)
The intentional community Revive the Roots fosters at Mowry Commons and at school gardens in Smithfield is so inspiring and interesting — they’ve got a lot to offer our food system and a lot to teach us about how we relate to each other as people within that system.
We hope you’ll join us for this short sit down with Annie Bayer, Revive the Roots Farm Manager, Educator and Volunteer Coordinator Extraordinaire for a glimpse into their work.
How long have you been farming?
I’ve been farming for a little over 10 years now.
How long have you been growing food at your current farm?
I’ve been growing food at Revive for 2 years. This will be my 3rd season coming up.
What do you love about farming?
When our connection to the land strengthens our connection to each other. On all the farms I’ve worked on, the conversations in the field or around food are a different type of nourishment. It fills you up to the brim.
Why do you partner with Hope’s Harvest?
We partner with Hopes Harvest because they have created systems that make farmers and the local community feel valued and supported.
What is your favorite part about your local community?
The creativity and problem solving nature. People are strong, compassionate, and collaborative.
What is your favorite thing to grow? / Most popular item?
Favorite thing to grow has to be potatoes, really getting into the dirt up to your elbows and feeling like you’re looking for gems in the field.
What challenges has your farm faced this season?
The drought and critter damage. I’ve heard many farmers say that they went hand and hand. This scenario is an example that climate change is having a direct effect on the food systems of all living things.
What exciting news / upcoming events does your farm have?
We are building out our programs calendar for the new year! The next one to keep an eye out for is our Annual Seed Exchange happening on March 15th. We also host volunteer days every first Sunday of the month from 12 to 4pm. Food and a fire provided!
How can people support your farm (social media, farmers markets, etc.)?
Come out and learn alongside us! Signing up for our newsletter or following our Instagram will keep you in the loop on events, fundraising campaigns, and volunteer days. Follow the link in our Instagram bio @revivetheroots to find out more information.
Revive the Roots is coming into 2023 with some exciting opportunities for community members — in particular, they are seeking committee members! This is a rolling call to the community that is available for folks when they feel compelled to get involved in a larger way at Revive. They are currently looking for members for their Fundraising, Land Stewardship, and Programs Committee. They are hosting a tour on February 11th and 15th, 12-1pm, for any interested folks. RSVP to hannah@revivetheroots.org if you’d like to attend.
Volunteer days are coming up 🌹as well! Mark your calendars for February 5 and March 5, 12-4pm, for a sweet time at 374 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, RI, on the ancestral lands of the Narragansett, Nipmuc, Pokanoket, and Wampanoag people. Cooking and being merry around the fire after the work is done is an additional draw! Register here.
