The Moy Hill Community Farm was started by a community of surfers close to the reeling waves of Lahinch and under the cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland. Two acres of land were donated by a local hero for a field and community garden, now used for growing native fruits and vegetables as well as for planting a native tree orchard to preserve the local Irish heritage. The Moy Hill Community Farm holds free workshops on growing, cooking, building and works with several other non-profits with the common goal to promote healthy and sustainable communities in Ireland.
It’s no easy task but all of the work is done with a sustainable approach. Pigs help to rotavate the field and local seaweed and sand are used as opposed to fertilizers or pesticides. Everyone is invited to come and help grow and in return, when the harvest is done, is rewarded with the literal fruits (and vegetables) of their labour.
The mission here is a simple one: to feed local people, love the earth, and inspire. But to keep on progressing in that direction they continue to work with whatever is necessary – soil, seeds, shovels, and long days in the field, farmers, banks, politics (Fergal stood for election last year), NGOs, charities, schools and universities, as well as yoga, meditation, and community building practices. The Moy Hill crew grow food but also hold an open door for anyone to stay, work, learn, grow, and heal.
The Moy Hill crew are now reaching out for help to continue their ever-growing project. A 60-acre plot of land has become available next to Moy Hill Farm, allowing them to expand. While this land has it’s practical gifts like more space for native trees, more land for good food, and more nature under their care, it also carries a greater message of what is possible when a community comes together. You can grow our own food. You can drink clean water. You can give your children the gift of growing and enjoying nature.
The Moy Hill Farmers hope that their story will have a greater purpose, to inspire and support others in reclaiming food, water, and educational sovereignty in their local areas.
Editors note: You can learn more about Moy Hill Farm and support their campaign by visiting their crowdfunding page here.
You can learn more about the author @alan_stokes, his fiancé, yoga teacher @PhillyLewis, and their surf & yoga retreats @wildandfreeadventures.
