2024 Accomplishments
As we approach the end of 2024, we’re excited to share the incredible progress made on the North Richmond Farm over the past year. From landscaping and sustainable building to community engagement and volunteer-driven efforts, this year has been a milestone in our journey toward creating a vibrant, eco-friendly space that will serve Richmond for years to come.
January – March
The year began with significant construction milestones. Heavy timber trusses were installed, and the Farm Annex started to take shape, reaching a major milestone with a “Topping Out” celebration. This marked the completion of several key buildings.
In addition to the buildings, we poured footings for Phase 2 structures and installed sewer, water, and storm drain systems, ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to support the farm’s continued expansion.
April – June
Work on the History Walk and outdoor classrooms began, enhancing the farm’s educational opportunities. New crop rows were also planted to keep our farming operations thriving throughout the season. We also created Light Straw Clay insulation for the Watershed Workshop, incorporating eco-friendly materials into our buildings.
July – September
The summer months were filled with volunteer-driven progress. We hosted a Volunteer Build Day to plaster the Watershed Workshop, a vital part of our infrastructure. Concrete was poured for essential features like the farm’s driveway, rain garden planters, and Phase 2 parking curbs, ensuring the farm’s continued development.
October – December
The final quarter of 2024 saw significant strides in landscaping and infrastructure. We installed new irrigation systems to support our farm’s growth, ensuring that water management aligns with sustainable practices. Volunteers helped us plant native species along the History Walk, creating a beautiful and educational space. Additionally, the Basin of Relations Watersheds Team grew plants that were incorporated into the landscaping, further reinforcing our commitment to local biodiversity.
We also built bioretention planters along Brookside Drive, a key feature of our eco-friendly design, and erected the main greenhouse, providing an essential space for growing plants year-round. Our Summer Youth Apprentices were instrumental in plastering building projects, leaving their mark on the farm’s future.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we reflect on the year’s accomplishments, we are more determined than ever to continue our progress in 2025. Our goals for the coming year include:
- Securing funding to finalize Phase II construction.
We are in the final stretch of Phase II, and your support is crucial in helping us complete these essential structures. - Completing the final six weeks of Phase II construction.
We are focused on wrapping up Phase II and getting everything in place for the next phase of development. - Beginning Phase III construction.
In 2025, we’ll begin Phase III, which will include building the Community Resiliency Center. This space will serve as the hub for the farm stand, offer educational classes and activities, and play a vital role in emergency response efforts in the community.
Help Us Build a Sustainable Future
The North Richmond Farm is a project built by the community, for the community. This year has been transformative, but there is still much work to be done. Your end-of-year donation can make a lasting impact, helping us complete Phase II and launch into the next critical stage of development. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant, and sustainable future for everyone.
Let’s keep the momentum going
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. We look forward to all that 2025 holds for the North Richmond Farm!