Day 2: Higher Ground Farm

     On Saturday, June 23^rd, the group drove into South Boston to visit a rooftop garden called Higher Ground Farm. It is perched on top of the Boston Design Center, situated right on the water. They grow and sell a variety of crops, such as greens and tomatoes, and sell them to local Boston restaurants or directly to the community. The owners, Courtney and John, currently only use one small portion of the roof, but they hope to expand to the rest once they increase their capital.

     When we first arrived, we were warmly welcomed. There were some other volunteers there so we all introduced ourselves and gave our favorite vegetable as an ice breaker. We proceeded to split into groups for various tasks: making beds, planting, watering, and weeding. After we finished everything, which ended up being quicker than anticipated because of the amount of people working hard to lend a hand, we got a taste of the history of the farm along with the reasons why they do it. We learned about the obstacles they faced unique to rooftop farms; if they were willing to search for a suitable rooftop to use for two years without giving up or have another job on the side to support themselves, I think that demonstrates volumes of passion. At the end, we had the chance to see the rest of the roof and soak in the sights of the surrounding Seaport neighborhood.

     Coming into the trip, I had been most excited for this community partner. I think in a lot of people’s heads, rooftop gardens epitomize urban agriculture. There is not much free available land in a city so the best alternative is to turn to the unused roofs into more environmentally friendly and productive space. There is a bit of a stark contrast between this farm and the farms most are familiar with, but the bottom line is that they are all still farms. This farm prompted thought because of the way the owners must operate in an altered manner with altered mindsets. There are many factors working against them, but they prove that perseverance can go a long way and bring about success. I applaud their motives and efforts, and I am glad we had the opportunity to serve them.

- Kimia Abtahi