San Xavier Co-Op Farm

History and Mission

San Xavier Co-Op Farm is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Tohono O’odham Nation, nurturing desert cultivars while fostering community connections. By intertwining traditional practices with modern sustainability efforts, they aim to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the region.

Agricultural Practices

The farm is Certified Naturally Grown, avoiding chemical pesticides or fertilizers, and focuses on building and maintaining soil health. They improve land health by harvesting rainwater, diluting CAP water, and utilizing existing topographical features for efficient water system design. This holistic approach ensures year-round fertility and sustainability.

Offerings

San Xavier Co-Op Farm offers a unique blend of traditional and local produce. Seasonally available offerings include ciolim (cholla buds), Wi:hog (mesquite pods), and i:bha’i (prickly pear fruit), which are foraged by trained community members. The farm processes and preserves these foods, selling them in the farm store and to local businesses.

Throughout the year, they also sell plant starts such as tomatoes, chiles, and melons, directly supporting local gardeners.

Wild Harvest and Community Programs

Community involvement is central, with programs educating locals on harvesting, preserving, and cooking Sonoran Desert foods. Through the Pay by the Pound Program, members can sell foraged foods, benefiting from an additional income source. Organized workshops also teach sustainable harvesting methods, enabling participants to contribute meaningfully to regional agriculture.

Events and Community Engagement

San Xavier Co-Op Farm hosts a variety of events to engage the community. From cultural workshops to film screenings like 'Smoke Signals', these events often feature local food and arts initiatives. They also host creative workshops, such as Wheatpasting Mural Workshops, and participate in events like the Tucson Meet Yourself Festival.

Visiting and Purchasing

Visitors can engage with farm activities and purchase goods through the farm store. Regular workshops and seasonal events make it a vibrant hub for community learning and cultural celebration. Specific events such as plant sales offer additional purchasing opportunities.

The farm is located at the San Xavier Council Chambers and engages the community not just through farming, but also by serving as a venue where traditions and modern practices unite.