Our Story
A Community Farm in the Heart of the San Luis Valley
The Rio Grande Farm Park is a 38-acre community farm in Alamosa, Colorado. The Farm Park is a public space hosting family and commercial farmers, volunteer groups, and educational programs for the community to enjoy.
Nurturing Community, Cultivating Change
At Rio Grande Farm Park, we believe in the power of sustainable agriculture, cultural preservation, and community engagement. Our story is rooted in a shared vision of creating a place where people can connect, learn, and grow.
Our History
What once was Polston Elementary School is now the Rio Grande Farm Park.
When it was a school, the vegetable garden taught students about growing, harvesting, preparing, and eating vegetables. Members of the Guatemalan Mayan community used the land to grow food for their families.
In 2008 a community group from all walks of life came together with a vision of having a place to gather in a beautiful and healthy setting, preserve alluvial soil, grow food, learn about farming and the environment, and share resources. This group of people was able to purchase the property with the help of dedicated community members, the Trust for Public Land, and the San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition.
The space was initially called the Rio Grande Healthy Living Park, and it provided an accessible, rich farm space in the heart of Alamosa. Groups of volunteers came together to plant trees, raise a barn, and care for the space which became known as the Rio Grande Farm Park.
To access the site, you can either drive to the entry on Hwy 17 or walk across the Rio Grande from downtown Alamosa on a pedestrian bridge and head north to the green gate next to our irrigation pond.
Throughout the year, the community enjoys the Park in many ways. You can take in the view of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, view wildlife, watch the progress of crops, observe the beehives and apple orchard, sit in repose at the meditation pod, rent the Education Center for events of all kinds, and enjoy the nature play area playground.
The property comes to life during the summertime. The Mercadillo en el Rio farmers market has the freshest vegetables (grown on-site!), goods from regional vendors, and fabulous local food trucks. Groups of youth from the Boys and Girls Club and local high school apprenticeship programs learn about agriculture, ecology, and nature in the Education Center and the fields. Families come together to tend their gardens, often planted with the three sisters - corn, beans, and squash of various varieties. The farmer incubator plots house commercial farmers, members of the Rio Grande Organic Growers Cooperative, whose farming businesses provide accessible, affordable, fresh produce to the local community.
The Rio Grande Farm Park is a unique program and place. Contact us to schedule a guided tour or presentation about our offerings. We’d love to connect with you!
The Vision:
The Rio Grande Farm Park holds at its core Preservation and Creation: the preservation of the San Luis Valley’s agricultural heritage, precious water resources, and open public spaces; and the creation of economic development, healthy living practices, and educational opportunities.
Sustainable Agriculture and Organic Farming
At Rio Grande Farm Park, we embrace sustainable agriculture and organic farming practices. Our commitment to regenerative agriculture extends beyond the cultivation of organic crops. It is about replenishing the soil, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity.
Through innovative techniques and a deep reverence for the land, we strive to create a harmonious ecosystem where nature thrives, and people thrive alongside it.
Cultural Heritage and Community
Nestled in the heart of San Luis Valley, a Hispanic cultural heritage area, Rio Grande Farm Park aims to honor the rich tapestry of cultural traditions. We celebrate the diversity and heritage that shape our community including Native, Spanish, Mexican, Guatemalan, and Amish cultures.
As a gathering place for people of all backgrounds, we hope to embrace and preserve cultural foodwas, foster connections, and strengthen community bonds.
Collaboration and Impact
Rio Grande Farm Park is a program of the San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition. Together, we work towards our shared goals of creating an equitable local food system and revitalizing our community.
Through our collaboration with the Coalition, our partners, and our incredible volunteers, we have achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of the Education Center, our adobe wall and horno, a sustainable greenhouse, cold storage, and Mercadillo en el Rio farmers market. These projects serve as catalysts for change, empowering individuals to reconnect with the land and their food.
Are you ready to be a part of our journey?
Join us in cultivating change and building a stronger, more sustainable community.
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