The following blog post was written in August 2017 by Veronika Payne, an intern…
(Delphine Sellars and Sandy Sweitzer signing User License Agreement on Nov. 16 2017. Photo by Mavis Gragg)
Urban Community AgriNomics (UCAN) and Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC) entered into a User License Agreement on November 16, 2017 to activate an old farmstead on TLC’s Snow Hill IV conservation property in northern Durham County.
UCAN is creating the Catawba Trail Farm in Durham as an aspiring agricultural center. Initial steps will include the creation of a raised-bed and traditional-planting gardens, maintenance of the Catawba Indian trail, and restoration of existing structures.
Delphine Sellars, Chair of UCAN Board, explains “We are extremely happy to have reached this point, following a year of negotiation and planning. UCAN will connect with local schools, neighborhoods and organizations in providing a place to learn to grow, prepare and preserve fresh veggies, engage in STEM activities, and benefit from natural green spaces. This is an exciting time for UCAN and its supporters.”
“TLC is delighted to partner with UCAN at Snow Hill IV.” Sandy Sweitzer, TLC’s Executive Director, said. “It’s an ideal partnership for both organizations. This collaboration with UCAN’s work to create the Catawba Trail Farm will support local farms and food and connect people with nature on TLC land.”
Work at the Catawba Trail Farm is scheduled to begin during the MLK 2018 Day of Service weekend. “We will be planting this Spring 2018!” said Sellars.
UCAN is a minority lead 501(c)3 nonprofit. Its mission is to improve and create social, academic, economic and healthy developments of residents through agriculture. Triangle Land Conservancy’s mission is to create a healthier and more vibrant Triangle region by safeguarding clean water, protecting natural habitats, supporting local farms and food, and connecting people with nature through land protection and stewardship, catalyzing community action, and collaboration.
Learn more about Urban Community AgriNomics (UCAN) at www.ucan.today or www.facebook.com/ucantoday. Contact UCAN via email at info@ucan.today.