In the heart of Bedford, New Hampshire, a hidden gem quietly thrives, offering a unique blend of agricultural heritage, education, and outdoor exploration. Joppa Hill Educational Farm, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has been tirelessly working towards its mission to preserve a working farm for the purpose of providing people of all ages with interactive educational experiences that create powerful connections with New Hampshire's agricultural past. This remarkable farm, nestled on 35 acres of public land leased from the Town of Bedford, is open to the public every day, offering a multitude of enriching programs and services. If you haven't been to the farm, we're excited to share what it's all about.

At the core of Joppa Hill Educational Farm lies a commitment to preserving New Hampshire's agricultural roots. With a focus on education, the farm seeks to pass down the knowledge and values of the region's vanishing agricultural heritage to new generations. The farm's board envisions a place where the community can connect with its agrarian history, fostering a deep appreciation for the land and its resources. This may not look like traditional farming anymore all the time, and that's ok! The farm is a community gathering place, a place to learn, a place to grow, meditate, and exercise, all wrapped up in farming.

One of the farm's highlights is its dedication to educational programs. This year alone, we provided enriching experiences to 288 young minds. The eight dynamic weeks of summer camp, catering to children aged 5-8, are a standout offering. Each week centered around a different animal living at the farm, allowing campers to immerse themselves in hands-on learning experiences.

In addition to summer camp, the farm has an outdoor preschool called Joppa Farm and Forest. This school year, the preschool program offers a child-led play school rich in nature immersion. It's truly a one-of-a-kind educational experience for children, creating stewardship of nature and agriculture wrapped up in one learning experience.

Joppa Hill Educational Farm prides itself on a commitment to personalized attention. With small instructor-to-child ratios, campers receive individualized guidance, ensuring they make the most of their time on the farm. The friendly animals, sprawling farm and forest grounds, and enthusiastic counselors create an environment where curiosity thrives, fostering a genuine connection to nature and the agricultural world.

Last fall marked a new chapter for the farm as we unveiled a fresh farm logo designed by the talented Heather Bastos. The logo reflects the farm's growth and evolution while staying rooted in its mission.

Beyond the farm's educational offerings, it also serves as a trailhead for hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the picturesque woods between Bedford and Amherst. The farm's location is not just a testament to its commitment to the environment but also an invitation for everyone to partake in the beauty and serenity of nature. Joppa Hill Educational Farm is a shining example of how a small nonprofit farm can make a monumental impact in preserving agricultural heritage and fostering meaningful connections with the past. Through their enriching programs, stunning natural surroundings, and a renewed focus on community engagement, they are sowing the seeds of education and appreciation for New Hampshire's agricultural roots. As they continue to grow and evolve, the farm is sure to become an even more vital resource for the community, nurturing future generations of agriculturists and nature enthusiasts alike.

At the core of the farm's success is a dedicated team of nearly 100 volunteers, ranging in age from 1 to 85, who contribute over 3,500 hours annually to tend to the animals, gardens, and farm stand. These selfless individuals are the lifeblood of Joppa, and their unwavering commitment goes far beyond labor. For many, the farm provides a sense of community, where families come together, deepening their connection to the land and its animals. Others find solace in nature, escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The growing waitlist to join this volunteer family is a testament to the enduring spirit of Joppa. In addition to our incredible volunteers who keep the farm running day-to-day is our Board of Directors, who oversee the strategic direction of the farm. Our Board of Directors are also 100% volunteers and can be seen assisting with daily operations at the farm as well as volunteering at and running our larger events, including our Summer Concert Series, Fall Fair, Halloween and Easter events, and more!

The Community Gardens at Joppa Hill Educational Farm had a remarkable season despite the challenges Mother Nature threw their way. By March, all 40 plots were filled, and there was even a waiting list for 2024—a testament to the community's enthusiasm for agriculture. In June, the farm hosted an Open Garden day that brought together 50 families for refreshments, free pollinator flowers, tours, and valuable insights from experienced gardeners. Throughout the season, a weekly garden newsletter kept gardeners informed about insect and pest issues, crop ideas, and educational tips to improve their techniques. The community gardens not only nourished its caretakers but also gave back to the community by supplying flowers and vegetables to "Meals on Wheels" and the Joppa farm stand.

In 2023, the farm forged an invaluable partnership with the University of New Hampshire Extension, facilitating a knowledge exchange that greatly benefited the farm. Insights into rotational grazing and best management practices have been put into action this year, further enriching the farm's sustainability. 2024 brings excitement with nine master gardeners joining the volunteer force to work the land and educate the community.

The farm's animal residents had their share of adventures, too. The cows relished greener pastures during the summer and received a brand-new shelter just in time for the winter season! The goats happily browsed up on the hill, and the sheep have been relocated to the front pasture with the horses. The ducks received a cozy coop makeover thanks to the generosity of a local Boy Scout named Jaden. The farm also welcomed 27 day-old chicks in the summer. These fluffy newcomers quickly became a source of joy and entertainment, captivating the volunteers with their charming antics.

If you're looking for a way to support your local community Farm in 2024, consider attending our largest fundraising event - The Snowball Gala - to be held on Saturday, February 17, at the Bedford Village Inn. Tickets for the Snowball Gala are $125 per person and are a great way to trade farm clothes for dress clothes while supporting a great cause! Tickets include dinner, dancing, and our silent and live auctions. This event allows us to make improvements to the farm all year long! Tickets are for sale on our website: www.theeducationalfarm.org. In addition to attending the Snowball Gala, you can support Joppa Hill Educational Farm by joining our Farm Membership Program. Memberships run for the duration of the year and cost $120 per family. Benefits that members can enjoy include a piece of farm merchandise, early access to camp registration and ticketed events, free programming, and more.

In 2024, the Joppa Hill Educational Farm is poised to make thoughtful and deliberate changes to its operations. These changes are part of a strategic plan to move closer to the goal of constructing an educational building for the community. This goal is essential in meeting the farm's mission of providing enriching educational experiences that connect people with New Hampshire's agricultural past.

The Joppa Hill Educational Farm stands as a shining example of a community-driven nonprofit farm where dedication, resilience, and a shared love for the land and its animals create a vibrant tapestry of growth and learning. As they enter the next chapter of their journey, the farm's enduring spirit and commitment to education and community-building continue to inspire us all. Here's to a bountiful and transformative 2024 for Joppa and the Bedford community it serves. If you'd like to be more involved, please contact contact@theeducationalfarm.org; we'd love to hear from you.