Strengthening Local Food Systems in Franklin County
Just Roots is a nonprofit based in Greenfield, Massachusetts, working to increase access to healthy local food and support sustainable agriculture throughout Franklin County. Since 2008, the organization has focused on reconnecting people with where their food comes from—starting with encouraging vegetable gardening on public land.
What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a regional model for community-based food systems.
The Greenfield Community Farm
At the core of Just Roots' work is the Greenfield Community Farm, a 61-acre property leased from the Town of Greenfield. The land has a long agricultural history, dating back to 1849 when it was sold to the town by Justin Root, the farm’s namesake and the inspiration for the organization’s name.
For years, the land was used primarily for hay and feed corn. In 2011, a coalition of local groups—including Just Roots, Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust, and Greening Greenfield—secured an Agricultural Preservation Restriction to permanently protect the land for farming and public benefit.
Community-Driven and Collaborative
Just Roots is led by a mix of staff and volunteers and emphasizes public involvement at every level. Monthly board meetings are open to the community, and working committees provide opportunities for hands-on participation in shaping the organization's work.
Partnerships are central to their model. Just Roots collaborates with local farms, schools, food distributors, public institutions, and social service agencies to build a more resilient and inclusive local food network.
Expanding Access and Education
The Greenfield Community Farm supports a range of programs designed to improve access to nutritious food and increase agricultural literacy. Its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program serves around 250 households and offers flexible payment options, including a sliding scale to accommodate different income levels.
The farm also hosts educational field trips, seasonal community events, and volunteer workdays. Programs are designed to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in learning about food systems and sustainable farming practices.
Get Involved
There are many ways for individuals and organizations to connect with Just Roots:
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Join the CSA to receive fresh, locally grown produce.
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Volunteer at the farm during workdays or special events.
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Attend educational programs or community meals.
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Participate in governance by joining a board meeting or committee.
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Partner with Just Roots if you’re part of a group working in food access, education, or agriculture.
Join the Effort
Whether you're interested in growing food, learning more about sustainable agriculture, or helping improve food access in your community, Just Roots offers practical ways to get involved. Visit the Just Roots website or contact the farm to learn more.
A Community Asset for the Long Term
Just Roots is building a local food system that’s community-led, equitable, and sustainable. With a strong foundation in local history and broad community support, it continues to serve as a model for how public land and collective effort can drive meaningful change.
For more information about community happenings and real estate news visit Wanda's Blog at www.wandamooney.com/blog, or feel free to contact Wanda for professional real estate assistance.
Learn about more local non-profits in my Notice Non-Profits blog series here.
Photo credit: Just Roots Facebook page
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