The Common Acre

The Common Acre begins with the soil. Our mission is to restore relationships between people and the land through ecology, agriculture, and art. We reconnect humans with nature through the medium of food and seek to restore a living food system that feeds our minds and nourishes our communities. Our collaborative programs transform marginalized land into biodiverse pollinator habitat and community gardens, which in turn create space for inspirational cultural convenings. We also partner with scientists to improve our understanding of native pollinator ecosystems and feed that research back into our restoration work.

We believe urban food systems are key to creating healthy communities. Food is more than what we eat: it’s a medium through which we can connect, both mentally and physically, to our neighbors and our surroundings. Our health comes from the soil, and the pollinators that complete the growing process. We bring people closer to their food and each other through a network of community farms and wild bee habitat projects. 

We work with communities and public agencies to revive land through collaborative restoration. By nurturing a network of urban farms and restoring native plant and pollinator habitat, community members grow their own produce, gain access to training, and activate shared green space; work that, by its nature, strengthens bonds to each other and to the land.

We share what we learn about these lands and from each other through  cultural expression, education, and food. Our goal is to promote a shared understanding about the connection between our lives and our natural world which empowers people to participate in meaningful change.

We partner with scientists in innovative field research and deepen understanding of native pollinator ecosystems. We have developed a data-driven, replicable model for increasing habitat and supporting wild bees in urban systems.

We use this data in our work with policy makers, land managers, and communities to make informed decisions about public land use to support a healthy environment through food systems.

We critically assess who holds power in decision-making and actively promote self-determination. Our projects work holistically; in conservation, engagement, and advocacy.

We build resilience and sustainability by partnering with  residents in the communities most impacted by the very same food insecurity and environmental degradations plaguing pollinator populations.