Creating Permanent Land Security

Farmers cannot survive without land access, and they cannot thrive without permanent land security. Ownership of land has always been the gold standard for generations of farmers. But what if ownership feels insurmountable with land prices today? And what happens when a farmer who owns land retires without a succession plan?

Solidarity Farm’s lease on their farm and home was suddenly terminated, and they struggled to find land in the booming San Diego metro area. Ellee Cavazos Igoe (or Hernan Cavazos Garcia) will share their story of searching for land and finding the right partners that could provide the security needed. After many up and downs chasing properties, Dirt Capital provided 100% of the funding to purchase Solidarity’s new farm in Valley Center, CA and served a transitional owner. However, Solidarity’s journey didn’t stop there. Ellee and Nan believe in the need to create long-term access to farmland beyond their lifetimes, and they are working with a local coalition to create a Community Land Trust (CLT). Instead of directly taking ownership of the land from Dirt Capital, Ellee and Nan plan to purchase only the structures and have the land become the first property owned by the CLT. Dirt Capital laid down the pathway to get a foothold on land, and Solidarity Farm is working with their community to keep the land affordable for farmers in perpetuity.

Questions? Contact amanda@dirtpartners.com.