The Village Agricultural Cooperative has signed a five year lease to turn the southeast corner of the property into a community farm. After several years of attempted development of the area, the land was determined to be in the shoreline district and needs to remain porous. The Village Ag Coop has held their office in the mission house for the past 2.5 years and also been managing the existing Hope garden. The two organizations are in mission alignment toward increasing food security in Rochester MN.

 

There continues to be a need for land access for the production of local food. Our 2026 farm waiting list holds more than 30 people currently seeking urban farmland. Director Amanda Nigon-Crowley states: “We are excited about the transition of this land. This will create a home base for our organization and create another 3 acre farm dedicated to food production.” The 3 acres lie adjacent to the necessary amenities; city water, electricity, busline and parking are all within reach. The Village anticipates that five families will use the land in the 2026 season. The lowest SE corner of the property will be transformed to mitigate potential soil loss due to tillage and incorporate pollinator and wildlife habitat. 

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For more information, feel free to contact at amandanc@rochvillage.org, or 507-271-7069