Executive Director’s Message Frogtown Community, Reflecting on Frogtown Farm's journey this year fills me with gratitude and pride. Despite challenges, our farm has remained a beacon of resilience, collaboration, and growth. Our dedication extends far beyond the fields of Frogtown Farm. In this vibrant space where culture, art, education, and agriculture converge, we foster creativity and learning, enriching the shared experience of Frogtown. We are deeply committed to enhancing our ecosystem and empowering our community through regenerative urban agricultural practices, making significant contributions to urban sustainability and resilience against climate challenges. As Frogtown Farm's lease with the City of St. Paul nears its end, we want to share that the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Board has initiated a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. We're committed to applying for the RFP and continuing to serve and grow alongside the Frogtown community in 2024. This challenge is an opportunity for us to evolve and better serve our community. Our journey is far from over! We invite you to join us in cultivating a resilient, nourished, and united community. Your involvement is crucial. Whether through volunteering, donating or supporting our initiatives, your engagement matters. In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Frogtown Farm's founders: Seitu Jones, Soyini Guyton, Patricia Ohmans, and Tony Schmitz. Their vision and investments inspire us as we continue this vital work in our community. With hope and determination,
Lachelle Cunningham
Our Story Thus Far
Founded in 2013 from the Frogtown neighborhood's vision, Frogtown Farm symbolizes our commitment to community, sustainability, and cultural enrichment. With over a decade as a hub for urban agriculture and social equity, Frogtown Farm stands as a pillar in our community. The timeline map below highlights our journey, showcasing the farm's key milestones and its evolving impact on the community.
20132014
2015
2015
Initial farm planning Held public and advisory committee meetings between Sep 2013 - Feb 2014
2015
Frogtown Farm opened October 3rd, 2015 Installation of hoop house, basic irrigation system and electrical infrastructure Development and completion of road, paths, plaza, entryways, two fields covering approximately 2.2 acres with winter cover crops
2015
Infrastructure enhancements including irrigation, electrical services, storage shed, outdoor classroom, washing/packing station, and orchard planting Development of 1.2 acres of soil, establishment of cultural demonstration gardens and communal garden spaces
2016
2017
Expanding infrastructure with a new wash/pack shed, increasing staff, and offering educational programs Advancing sustainability with goals to fill key roles and secure funding for water quality and filtration improvements
OUR MISSION
To enrich the world by cultivating soil and community in Frogtown.
OUR VISION
At Frogtown Farm, our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is at the core of our operations.
Over 2000 pounds harvested Adjustments due to COVID-19, focusing on soil regeneration and reduced production for soil fertility Establishment of 'Fare For All' food distribution site and dry foods pantry Implementation of infrastructure improvements, farm truck and tractor
2021
7th year of farm production on 5.5 acres. Distribution of produce through local community groups, serving over 2000 low-income residents Capital improvements like constructing raised beds and fencing around the hoop house Hosted various events, including farm tours and cooking classes Financial challenges 6800 pounds of produce harvested
2020
2021
2020
Hosted 40 events focusing on community engagement and education Formed collaborations with local Recreation Centers for Rec Check programs and with Saint Paul Public Schools for the Youth Farm initiative 8 Farm Crew Members Challenges in water management and vandalism, with continuous soil health improvement efforts
2022
2023
Welcomed 6 new board members. New leadership team. Hosted three emerging farmers' agricultural ventures at the Farm. Hosted 2 interns Enhanced soil quality Utilized organic waste for composting RFP and lease challenges 7300 pounds of produce harvested
Urban Agriculture, Sustainability,
& Environmental Impact At Frogtown Farm, our dedication to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship forms the foundation of our operations. We've implemented innovative farming practices to minimize our ecological footprint and contribute positively to our community.
Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Sustainable Agriculture Practices
olutionizi ev
e
Water Us ng
We’re using drip irrigation to significantly reduce water consumptiom C
R
Enrich in
er Crops ov
tivating C ul
We’re utilizing cover cropping techniques that are employed to enrich the soil with green manure and additional nutrients to supercharge the microbiology for the upcoming seasons.
ur Soils gO
We're implementing soil health strategies with peat moss, compost, manure, and mycelium spray to boost microbial activity and water retention.
THE
POWER
OF SUSTAINABLE LIVING ling Our C oo
munity om
Environmental Initiatives and Impact
C
Planting Seeds of Change
We have implemented sustainable practices that have significantly contributed to mitigating the local heat island effect.
We participated in the Climate Carnival with Frogtown Green, which aimed to help raise climate change awareness.
ging a Sus or
inable Fut ta
F
We've developed our compost system to incorporate, utilizing plant waste, organic coffee grounds, spent grains from a local brewery.
e ur
rning Was Tu
Into Gold te
Our Impact in Numbers Our dedication to regenerative agriculture and urban forestry extends beyond environmental beautification. By facilitating access to nutritious, locally grown produce, we aim to support the well-being of our entire community. Crop Production Insights: The most abundant crops were cucumbers and eggplants. Nightshades, root vegetables, greens, and cucurbits showed significant yields. Our hoop house yielded 357 pounds of okra and sweet potatoes for the first time in 2 years.
FIELD 3
Farm crew of 8 dedicated members has passionately contributed over 4,500 hours of farm labor.
5518 lbs
HOOP HOUSE
357 lbs
FIELD 2 587 pounds
FIELD 1 587 lbs
Strengthening Community Ties: Our Partnerships in Action
70 pounds donated
Me
F
S
g Frogto din w e e
4,733.51 pounds donated
Wheels (W on il s al
r) de
e
2,152 pounds donated
ide Foodsh ths ar u o
n
Founda eh ti nn
on
Sa
At Frogtown Farm, our commitment to community enrichment and food security is brought to life through strategic partnerships and dedicated teamwork. This year, we achieved a significant milestone by donating 7,025 pounds of fresh produce to several key local organizations, each playing a vital role in addressing food insecurity and enhancing community well-being in Saint Paul.
70 pounds donated
Community Engagement and Empowerment:
Nurturing Arts, Culture and Wellness Frogtown Farm's 2023 calendar was rich with events that celebrated arts, culture, food access, and community healing, exemplifying our commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community atmosphere. 1. Friday Night Film @ Frogtown: This event showcased the creativity of local Twin Cities artists through a series of engaging short films. It provided a platform for artists like Phil Irvin, Roshan Gang, and Cameron Patricia Downey to share their cinematic visions, offering the community an evening of cultural enrichment and thoughtful discussion. 2. Juneteenth Celebration: A cornerstone event drawing over 125 attendees, the Juneteenth celebration was a dynamic mix of art, culture, and history. It featured performances from groups like the Black Youth Healing Arts Center and artist Truthmaze. Highlights included story circles and culturally inspired wood-fired pizzas. As well as a Reverence Table, a space honoring ancestors, further deepened the community's connection to the historical and cultural significance of Juneteenth. 3. Prairie|Concrete: This interactive workshop focused on the natural environment of Frogtown, blending music, art, and performance to create a unique and immersive experience. It showcased local talent and fostered a deeper appreciation of our surroundings. 4. THRIVE: Engaging Pre-Kindergarten Families Frogtown Farm, in partnership with People of Victory LLC, hosted the THRIVE event, a unique gathering for families with pre-kindergarten children. This event was an engaging and educational experience, designed to ease the transition from early childhood education to kindergarten. Collaborating with a variety of community organizations, THRIVE offered families hands-on farm and garden experiences, and access to valuable resources. The event underscored the importance of community support in early learning and family engagement.
Each of these events not only celebrated the unique spirit of Frogtown but also strengthened our community bonds through shared experiences and learning.
Financial Snapshot STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Current Assets
143,330
Fixed Assets
158,526
Total Assets
301,856
Liabilities
15,666
Net Assets
286,190
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
301,856
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITY REVENUE Foundation Grants
90,000
Private Nonprofit Grants
50,000
Individual Donations
8,247
Corporate Contributions
2,500
Miscellaneous
806
TOTAL REVENUE
151,553
EXPENSES Programming
222,998
Management and General
85,768
Fundraising
33,564
TOTAL EXPENSES
342,330
Change in Net Assets
(190,777)
Beginning Net Assets
476,967
Ending Net Assets
286,190
VOLUNTEERS
The Heartbeat of Community Engagement
At Frogtown Farm, our vibrant community engagement and successes in 2023 were deeply rooted in the contributions of over 100 dedicated volunteers. These individuals devoted 501 hours across various activities, embodying the spirit of collective effort and community building.
Volunteer Contributions: Regular Farm Operations: Our volunteers are integral to daily tasks that keep our farm thriving. Event Support: Volunteers play a key role in organizing and executing community events, including Juneteenth celebrations and THRIVE gatherings. Environmental Initiatives: Active participation in tree planting and care for perennials bolsters our ecosystem.
Collaborative Efforts: Volunteer Groups: Fruit Tree Planting Foundation, St. Kates, Arms to Farms, AFSA High School, and Allied Solutions have been instrumental, showcasing the strength of community and educational partnerships. Academic Collaborations: In 2023, partnerships with Macalester College, University of Minnesota, and St. Catherine University offered students hands-on experiences in public relations, community engagement, and sustainable agriculture projects, like the Food Access map and photovoice projects on food system interactions.
Farm Tours Frogtown Farm's tours provide vital educational experiences, connecting individuals directly with the source of their food and the principles of sustainable agriculture. Educational Focus: Tours for University of Minnesota Food Service Operations Management students students highlight local food systems and community nutrition. Arms to Farms: Offers veterans experiential learning in sustainable agriculture. Community Leaders: Welcoming figures like City Councilman Russell Balenger and organizations such as the McKnight Foundation to illustrate our impact.
A heartfelt thank you to all our dedicated volunteers!
Strategic Planning for 2024:
Preparing for Frogtown Farm's Future As we approach 2024, Frogtown Farm is actively preparing for a pivotal moment in our journey. With our lease ending in 2023, we are gearing up to apply for the City of Saint Paul's RFP for a management partner at Frogtown Farm and Park. Securing this contract will be a crucial step to ensure our continued growth and presence in the community. This effort reflects our dedication to the farm and the support we've garnered over the years.
Building a Sustainable Future
Amplifying our focus on health and nutrition, offering workshops and demonstrations that link community wellness with the joys of local, fresh produce. Our goal: a community flourishing with knowledge and access to nutritious food.
Intensifying our mission in regenerative agriculture to combat climate change, we plan to scale up our production on the farm and integrate more resident community gardeners. Through practical farming sessions and environmental workshops, we aim to showcase sustainable practices for a healthier planet.
JOIN OUR JOURNEY
Breaking down barriers to food access, promoting food justice, and sparking transformative change. Through dialogues and partnerships, we'll advocate for everyone's right to healthy food, driving community-wide equity.
At Frogtown Farm, we're not just facing challenges head-on; we're turning them into opportunities for growth innovation
and deeper community connections.
Through strategic planning, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability
we're
ensuring that our farm remains a vibrant, resilient
beacon in the heart of our.
community.
TRANSFORMING OBSTACLES INTO OPPORTUNITIES Below is an outline of our strategic plan, detailing our anticipated challenges and the proactive measures we're implementing to navigate and overcome them.
Challenges
Anticipated Challenges
Strategic Response
Late start growing date due to city's inability to turn on irrigation system earlier than May.
Identifying early water usage solutions to grow food earlier in year, and utilization of water harvesting practices to extend our limited growing season on both sides.
Navigating the impacts of erratic weather patterns on agriculture.
Implementing regenerative farming practices that enhance soil health and biodiversity, making our farm more resilient to climate change.
Addressing pollution from nearby St. Paul Foundry, known for fine particle emissions and permit violations.
Actively raising awareness about the environmental impact of the St. Paul Foundry on the Frogtown community and advocating for cleaner practices.
Ensuring the safety of the farm space, community members, and park visitors.
Collaborating with community resources officers, local organizations, and residents to develop comprehensive security and safety solutions for the farm.
Maintaining active communication and involvement with the local community.
Hosting community engagement sessions to jointly envision and plan future farm programs, fostering a sense of ownership and partnership among residents.
Succeeding in the City of Saint Paul's RFP process for a management partner at Frogtown Farm and Park.
Strategically positioning Frogtown Farm in the RFP process by highlighting our commitment to sustainability, community wellbeing, and innovative agricultural practices.
Water Access
Climate Change
Environmental Concerns
Physical Security
Community Engagement
Competitive Positioning
SEEDS OF CHANGE Green Triumphs Cultivating Community and Environmental Well-Being
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
7025 lbs 600 + 40 4
Our mission extends beyond beautification, diving deep into the heart of regenerative agriculture and urban forestry to strike a balance between environmental sustainability and community well-being.
of Produce Donated
Families Supported
By fostering a culture of resilience, we're not just cultivating land; we're nurturing a vibrant, thriving community where the health of our environment and the prosperity of our people are inseparably linked, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.
Fruit Trees & Shrubs Planted
Community Food Access Partners
PHYSICAL OASIS Our holistic strategy integrates regenerative practices to nurture a robust ecosystem through sustainable resource management. By planting fruit trees and shrubs, we not only shrink our carbon footprint and purify air and water, but also tackle food accessibility challenges, ensuring a healthier future for our community.
WELLNESS NEXUS We prioritize well-being by offering accessible green spaces and locally-sourced, nutritious food, promoting mental, physical, and social health. Through skill development events and workshops, we empower individuals, fostering a sense of community while providing a gathering place for social interaction.
What’s in Our Future?
Volunteer at Frogtown Farm
Support Sustainable Initiatives
Every perspective helps us grow together!
Interested in Volunteering at Frogtown Farm? Scan the QR Code above to fill out an interest form
Your donation helps us advance our programming and agricultural initiatives. Scan the QR Code above to Support the Farm.
Share your ideas, dreams, and aspirations for our community. Scan the QR code to share your thoughts in our survey.
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A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community Frogtown Farm Funders:
Individual Donors:
Public Art Saint Paul /Minnesota State
LucieRoss
Kealoha Ferreira
Nicholas R. Jordan
John and Anne Levin
Arts Board
KatySchultz
Lucas Erickson
Patrick & Aimee Butler Family Foundation
Dipankar Mukherjee
Priscilla Morton
Mpls Foundation/The Margaret A. Cargill
CoraPreston
Larry & Sharon Paulson
Foundation
Christine Baeumler
James Halgerson
Marilyn Rose
Faith K Dietz
Michelle Mecey
Donald Lewis
Ryan Kjesbo-Johnson
Linda Forsberg
HRK: Julia Krammer
Nesret Theba
Joan Velasquez
HRK: Pugsly
Julie Kehne
Katherine Klink
Barbara Hall
Jeanne Barker-Nunn
Colleen Sheehy
Queen Frye
Andy Banas
Emily Shepard
Fidelity
Randel Hanson
Kathleen Fluegel
AAA
Kealoha Ferreira
Art Kaemmer, M.D.
Elmer & Eleanor Anderson Fund Greater Twin Cities United Way
HRK Katherine Hayes Saint Paul and Minneapolis Foundation
John and Anne Levin
Juneteenth Event Sponsors: MFJN Harlan Luxenberg Janet Garcia, Girl Scouts River Valley Jason Cook, Shinebox Midway Rise-Up Alemar Cheese Company Lowry Hill Provisions Sysco Baker’s Field Flour & Bread Cheeky Harvest Trader Joe’s Mississippi Market Co-op Seward Community Co-op Meals on Wheels Shobi’s Table Marigold Shepherd’s Way Farms The Humanity Alliance
Volunteers and Supporters The FY2023 Board of Directors includes: Eva Garrett, Board Chair Shaunie Grigsby, Vice Chair Queen Frye, Board Treasurer Phillip McGraw, Board Secretary Melinda Lewis Jamal Hashi Previous members who served on the board include Soyini Guyton (former Board Chair), GE Patterson, Barbara Hall (firner Treasurer), Donna Ray (former Interim Board Chair), and Dipankar Mukherjee. Frogtown Farm Staff: Lachelle Cunningham, Executive Director Keanue Driscoll-Cherland, Farm Manager 8 Farm Crew Members Randy Hanson, Farm Consultant Michelle Miller, Administrative Manager Melissa Jansma, Program and Fund Development Manager Alissa Perteet-Jackson, Program and Fund Development Manager