Lancaster’s Flats Mentor Farm (FMF) is a program of World Farmers that is designed to support small farmers of diverse ethnic backgrounds in their agricultural pursuits. Immigrant and refugee farmers have farmed this 70-acre river bottom in Lancaster, Massachusetts since 1985. In 2005, they formally organized to form FMF.

FMF is supported by Heifer International, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the Society for the Promotion of Agriculture, and the USDA, among others. The goal, according to the World Farmers website, is to promote “economically viable agricultural production that protects the environment through the practice of sustainable farming methods.” Farmers at FMF have access to resources, training, marketing, and technical assistance programs.

Crops at FMF often reflect the farmers’ cultural backgrounds. Over half of FMF farmers are from Central and East Africa, and some of the longest-tenure farmers are from Southeast Asia. Some unique produce selections include African corn, bitter melon, and fuzzy gourd.

FMF farmers sell their goods at farmers’ markets. In 2017, more than 40 FMF farmers were participating in local markets. Visit any of the participating farmers’ markets across Massachusetts to meet the farmers and try a new type of produce.

Photo: worldfarmers.org
Sources: worldfarmers.org