Charlotte’s Blooming Farming Scene: DeepRoots CPS Farm Expands to Promote Sustainable Agriculture
In the heart of bustling Charlotte, one small urban farm is about to embark on a big journey. DeepRoots CPS Farm, a premier Black-owned urban farm, is expanding its horizons beyond its current nearly 7-acre plot on Primm Road. With a vision of sustainability, community engagement, and access to fresh food, the farm is set to grow a whopping 44 acres thanks to a partnership with the Carolina Farms Fund. This initiative aims to protect valuable farmland from the ever-looming threat of urban development.
From Humble Beginnings to Grand Expansion
Founded by Cherie and Wisdom Jzar, DeepRoots CPS Farm has been cultivating a rich array of over 60 seasonal crops, including herbs, vegetables, and mushrooms. Alongside their crops, the farm is home to chickens, ducks, goats, beehives, and even a lively palomino horse named Major. The couple initially started farming in their backyard, growing food for their family and gradually transitioning into a community-focused operation.
Despite their success in the first three years, the Jzars found themselves struggling with land access. “We have requested demands we can’t fulfill right now,” Cherie mentioned. It became increasingly clear that they needed more land to meet their community’s demand for fresh produce.
A New Partnership for Land Preservation
Enter the Carolina Farms Fund, which has stepped in to save the day and the land. By acquiring a beautiful property on Macedonia Church Road for more than $1.4 million through an agricultural conservation easement, the Fund is ensuring that this valuable space remains dedicated to farming for generations to come. The Jzars will lease this land for four years, with the option to buy, allowing them to expand their farming operations in a sustainable manner.
Tim Belk, the board chairman of the Carolina Farms Fund, shared his excitement about the partnership. He emphasized the importance of supporting farmers, particularly those who have faced historic challenges in gaining access to land and resources. “Cherie and Wisdom are exactly the kind of partners we are looking for,” he said, highlighting their commitment to inclusivity and community-building.
A Vital Mission in a Growing City
As Charlotte is projected to lose a staggering 19,400 acres of farmland by 2040 due to ongoing development, the need for organizations like the Carolina Farms Fund has never been clearer. The fund aims to raise $17 million over ten years to preserve 5,000 acres within a 75-mile radius of the city. With urban growth on the rise, the fight to keep local farms thriving is crucial not just for farmers but for the broader community.
The Jzars’ Vision for the Future
With their new land, the Jzars have exciting plans ahead. They envision not just expanding their crop selection but also introducing community events at the farm and potentially running a “pick-your-own” strawberry patch. The expansion includes land along Little Richardson Creek, which is perfect for farming, complete with mixed hardwoods and existing structures to assist in their operations.
“There’s a little bit of trepidation, but we’re excited,” said Wisdom, echoing the sentiments of many who take the leap in agriculture. With their first crop of garlic slated for planting this fall, the family feels invigorated by the opportunity to produce not just for themselves but for their community as well.
DeepRoots CPS Farm stands as a beacon of hope in Charlotte’s agricultural landscape. It embodies a vision for sustainable farming, access to fresh food, and community unity. As the Jzars continue to inspire others with their commitment, they shine a light on the pressing need for equitable access to land, especially for Black farmers who have faced significant barriers throughout history.
Additionally, the farm demonstrates that even in a rapidly urbanizing world, there are green spaces where community and agriculture can thrive hand in hand. The Jzars are not just building a farm; they are nurturing the future of farming in Charlotte.
