By David Silva, Sembrador Apprentice
Throughout the spring and summer program for Los Sembradores has been incredible. Wonderful conversations during working on the farm seem to always arise that relate to life and our relationships to the land. The exchange of knowledge from our teachers Donne and Miguel open doors for everyone to add something to the caldo of conversation. I have learned about farming practices through dichos, I have gained knowledge on harvesting all kinds of crops, making remedios from different plants and creating tea blends for friends and family. The act of sharing what we produce is something that deeply resonates for me, to not ask for compensation and share out of the need for our communities is a practice I will continue to do in my life.
Some farming goals for me are to cultivate hearty, strong seed, to study germination of the seeds I receive from others and to create a seed bank for my community to use when they need. I want to expand the plot I am working on and create a space for the community to experiment with farming practices that they want to try out. I did not grow up with farming and a goal of mine is to start an accessible way to farm with my family and extend that to the wider community. Some of my mentors have a crop they take pride in growing, for me I think beans will be the crop I take pride in growing. The beans are thriving in my plot.
I have learned more about the history of the acequias through being in this program. The history of how it was introduced to this land and the communal ways it is operated. Working with both Donne and Miguel and seeing how the acequia floods their farms is something words can barely describe. To watch the water flow and nourish their crops is so powerful and something I would encourage everyone to experience if given the opportunity. You feel the care and love that Donne and Miguel give to their farm. When you eat a crop that grows on their land, it is a gift and testament to the power of farming in Northern New Mexico. It continues to inspire me, the efforts and energy that is bestowed into Chicoyole Farm and Sol Feliz Farm.
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