Ecology School will expand holdings along the Saco River

The Ecology School in Saco has added 200 acres to its regenerative agriculture learning campus at River Bend Farm alongside the Saco River. 

The property was purchased for $300,000. The American Farmland Trust and Hannaford Charitable Foundation each contributed $100,000, and private funders contributed the rest. 

“During this next decade, it will be crucial that our regional and national food systems become more climate-smart and work to support local communities, conservation, and address hunger,” said Drew Dumsch, president and CEO of the Ecology School. “We are honored to be partnering with Hannaford and the American Farmland Trust to create more public engagement and inspirational, hands-on education focused on this important work.” 

Dumsch was an honoree for Mainebiz's Next List in 2020.

The expansion will allow the school to expand its farming operations, workforce training, educational programs, conservation, agricultural research, and support collaborative partnerships. The additional fresh produce production will benefit the Ecology School’s Farm-to-Table Initiative and food pantry donations to help support community members who are experiencing food insecurity.
 
“AFT is proud to contribute to such a unique institution as The Ecology School,” said American Farmland Trust President and CEO John Piotti. “This school will help produce future farmers and teach them the practical skills necessary to run a farm operation. I cannot think of anything more valuable than shaping the future of farming, and The Ecology School encapsulates that.”  

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