even small-scale orchards within our borders ,” says Travis Stone , director of the apple program . “ The knowledge and experience gained here can provide an achievable goal for additional land reclamation sites throughout the state — a potential lifeline to renew and reinvigorate struggling communities .”
The Urban Farm facility in Dunbar also seeks to expand agricultural education and opportunities with a focus on serving the community . With more than 30,000 square feet of production space including greenhouse , raised bed and hydroponic production as well as commercial processing equipment and refrigeration , Patriot Guardens participants receive hands-on training in fruit and vegetable production , post-harvesting handling market development and chickens .
The Urban Farm has more than 30 chickens that are utilized for egg production and teaching program participants proper backyard poultry housing , handling and management operations .
In 2023 , the Urban Farm sold more than 1,250 pounds of produce —
including hydroponic lettuce , tomatoes , flowers and a variety of traditionally grown produce — to local restaurants , veterans and service members via monthly farmers markets .
The newest Patriot Guardens initiative is Base Innovations , a resource center and business hub for the veteran community located in downtown Charleston . Base Innovations offers agricultural education and outreach , specialized programs and workshops on business development , workforce development opportunities , hands-on training and networking . Additionally , the facility offers both shortterm and long-term office rental spaces ; conference room rental space to host meetings , seminars or training sessions ; and marketing and consulting services to assist with business development and management .
“ Our new facility will serve as a lynchpin for further community outreach initiatives and assist our program participants with much-desired professional space to grow and expand their agricultural endeavors ,” says Stacy Herrick , marketing director for Patriot Guardens .
“ Our doors are open , and we are ready to go .”
In addition to operating its own facilities , the Patriot Guardens team works closely with Work Force West Virginia , Jobs & Hope WV , Southwestern Regional Day Report Center ’ s Fresh Start Program , Lakin Correctional Center and Jail , Recovery Point and additional private and nonprofit groups and initiatives throughout the Mountain State . Together , they provide on-site educational and vocational opportunities , supporting recovery , transition and reintegration efforts for citizens .
“ We see agriculture as a great way to help give folks new focus and hope in their lives ,” Stewart says . “ Our goal is to provide our participants a window into a world they may have never before considered and serve as a conduit to employment and entrepreneurship .”
The program also partners with youth programs such as the National Guard ’ s Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academies and Future Leaders Program to provide agricultural education and hands-on farming opportunities for cadets and
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