Randolph student pursues passion for sustainability at Lynchburg Grows

Brooklyn Ford ’22 is interning at Lynchburg Grows this semester.                                                                           

On a recent Wednesday, Brooklyn Ford ’22 was hard at work on the farm at Lynchburg Grows—in and out of greenhouses, wheelbarrow in tow.

As a general farm intern this spring, Ford is involved in all aspects of the nonprofit urban farm’s daily operations, from planting to harvesting to composting. She’s also helping out with the farm’s FreshRX program, which provides free nutrition and cooking classes, as well as produce, to people who want to improve their health through food.

Brooklyn Ford ’22 is working at a general farm intern at the urban farm this spring.

An environmental science major, Ford reached out to folks at the farm in November, hoping to learn more about organic farming and other aspects of their work.

“After speaking with her about her interest in sustainable agriculture and passion for environmental science, I knew she would be a great fit for our team,” said Laura Wingfield, volunteer coordinator and assistant farm manager.

Lynchburg Grows sits on seven acres in the middle of the city, its produce supplying the farm’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and on-site market, the FreshRX program, and area restaurants. The nonprofit also donates food to local organizations that feed the hungry and homeless, with one greenhouse dedicated to growing food for donation.

“It’s just a great environment,” said Ford, who is working on the farm two days a week. “I’m getting to know people working in an area I’m interested in, and I love being outside all the time.

After graduation, she plans to join AmeriCorps and, eventually, would like to work in some area of sustainability.

“Brook has already learned and accomplished so much,” Wingfield said. “And she is a seed-starting pro.”