PLENTY magazine Autumn Harvest Season 2022 | Page 6

LAND LINK Montgomery

LAND LINK Montgomery

A program of Montgomery Countryside Alliance helping farmland and farmers find each other ...
Land Link has matched 26 new and expanding farmers with long term leases . Here are a few of the farmers that are still seeking land through the program .
Farmer Seeking Land Farmer with decades of experience looking for a piece of land to grow jicama , beans , corn varieties , radishes , cilantro , or other foods culturally appropriate for the Central American community . Open to smaller acreage .
Farmer seeking land GotYourSix is a service disabled veteran woman owned hyper-local farm . Our farm will support our local community and will help ensure access to affordable crops year-round . We are looking for any size acreage to apply 10 + years experience . Partnership , shared space , multifamily farming or any idea is worth a discussion .
mocolandlink . org
Farms we gathered near the abundant fields of cabbage and other market crops , acknowledging the importance of the Agricultural Reserve — of course . But most importantly , I heard from the farmers , 18 or so from different nations and races — men and women — as they shared their trials in connecting with affordable farm acreage and resources here in Montgomery County . Our agricultural community is providing economic development , while also connecting cultures , communities and generations . Programs such as Land Link Montgomery , aimed at connecting farmers with leased acreage , provide a unique opportunity to advance career opportunities , particularly to our immigrant community , that benefits all . But more deliberate action to nurture the next generation of food producers is necessary .
The experience at Dodo Farms and the stories of the growers were inspirational . It was clear that their work is much more than labor to them . It is truly a calling and their commitment to nourishing both their families and all of
Niyi and Tope with Gabe Albornoz . us is something that demands and deserves appreciation and respect . Leaving the farm that morning and the memories that the visit brought gave me tremendous energy and a deeper commitment as a policy maker to ensure we both support our agricultural community and their innovation , as well as ensuring that we do all we can to preserve our remaining open space . It ’ s a gift we must pass on to future generations .
Gabe Albornoz is a lifelong resident of Montgomery County and is deeply committed to the County , its people , and , as the son of immigrant parents , its diversity . A graduate of Montgomery County Public Schools , he has dedicated his career to public service and advocating for just social policies . In 2018 , he was elected to the Montgomery County Council as an atlarge member and currently serves as the Council ’ s President . Gabe chairs the Health and Human Services committee , where he oversees services that impact children , adults , and seniors in the County .