Navajo Farming, Cultural, and Technology Project
This project aimed to revitalize Indigenous farming practices in the Navajo Nation through hands-on agricultural training, cultural preservation, and community engagement. Funded by the State of New Mexico Indian Affairs Department, the initiative was originally scoped to support three farms. However, through the dedication of the NNMIF team and community interest, the project exceeded expectations by successfully supporting eight farms across Hogback and Shiprock, NM
Beginning of the Season
At the beginning of the farming season, one of our community members began farming and preparing the land for planting. This work included getting the field ready, planting crops, caring for the plants, and continuing traditional farming practices throughout the growing season. The project provides an opportunity for community members to actively participate in agriculture, strengthen local food production, and support the continuation of Indigenous farming knowledge and traditions.
The Growing Season
As the corn continued to grow, the team remained involved in maintaining the fields and supporting the crops through each stage of the growing season. The harvest provided an opportunity to bring the community together and support local food production while continuing the tradition of growing corn and maintaining Indigenous farming practices.
End of the Season Harvest
At the end of the farming season, NNMIF brought the youth and community members together for an end-of-season picnic to celebrate the work completed throughout the growing season. The gathering provided an opportunity for the youth to spend time together, share food, enjoy the outdoors, and reflect on what they learned through their experiences on the farm.The picnic celebrated the youth’s participation in planting, caring for, and learning about the crops throughout the season. It also created a space for community connection, relationship building, and appreciation for the land, farming, and the knowledge shared throughout the program.
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Team Members
The Northern New Mexico Indigenous Farmers, Inc. (NNMIF) team supported the start-up and ongoing maintenance of three community farms. Grant-supported team members helped ensure that all three farms were properly cared for throughout the growing season. Their work included preparing and maintaining the fields, planting and caring for crops, watering, weeding, monitoring crop growth, and addressing the day-to-day needs of each farm. Through this work, NNMIF helped support active community farming, strengthen local food production, and maintain Indigenous agricultural practices and knowledge.
