Relocating St. Joseph Farm to Burns Park
Following the loss of the historic St Joseph Orphanage site, St. Joseph Farm will establish a new home at the Burns Park old RV campground. This move supports an expanded agricultural mission featuring community gardens, pollinator habitats, and a butterfly conservatory to create a unique hybrid space for education and recreation.
The Farm at Burns Park advances local food resilience by teaching sustainable farming practices and supporting small farmers with training and market access. It fosters environmental literacy through hands-on education about native plants, pollinators, and habitat conservation, connecting the community to the land and its ecosystems.
Growing knowledge, cultivating community, strengthening local food systems.
Building a Sustainable Future Through Education and Agriculture
Benefits of Relocating to Burns Park
Boosting Local Food Access
Enhancing Tourism and Economic Impact
Strengthening Community Connections
Relocating St. Joseph Farm to Burns Park
The Farm at Burns Park will expand its agricultural mission by creating a vibrant space for farming, education, and community engagement. This move supports local farmers, increases fresh food access, and strengthens environmental stewardship in North Little Rock.
Why is St. Joseph Farm relocating to Burns Park?
After the loss of its historic building and lease termination, the farm seeks a new home to continue its mission. Burns Park RV Campground offers space to grow farming programs, community gardens, and educational initiatives while maintaining park accessibility.
This relocation allows the farm to expand its reach, improve farmer training, and foster stronger community partnerships in a natural, accessible setting.
What new features will the farm include at Burns Park?
The new site will host expanded community gardens, pollinator habitats, and a future butterfly conservatory. It will also support an Arkansas-only farmers market and host educational events focused on sustainable agriculture and habitat conservation.
These additions aim to enhance environmental literacy and provide hands-on learning opportunities for all ages.
How will the relocation benefit the local community?
The move will increase access to fresh, locally grown food and create new opportunities for community involvement through volunteer programs and educational workshops.
It will also boost tourism revenue and enrich park programming, making Burns Park a destination for recreation, learning, and nature appreciation.
Will the farm affect existing RV camping at Burns Park?
The plan integrates pull-thru RV spaces alongside the farmstead, preserving camping options while expanding agricultural and educational uses of the site.
This hybrid model balances recreational needs with the farm’s growth, ensuring both can thrive.
How can local farmers and volunteers get involved?
Farmers can participate in training programs and market opportunities, while volunteers are welcome to assist with gardening, events, and habitat projects throughout the year.
Regular meetups and educational field days provide ongoing engagement and support for the agricultural community.
What are the environmental goals of the new farmstead location?
The farm aims to promote sustainable farming practices, protect pollinator species, and restore native plant habitats to enhance biodiversity within Burns Park.
Educational programs will focus on environmental literacy to empower visitors and residents to support resilient local ecosystems.
How will the project be funded and maintained?
The farm will lead construction and development with minimal cost to the city, relying on partnerships, grants, and community support to sustain operations and programming.
Ongoing maintenance will involve collaboration between the farm team, volunteers, and local organizations to ensure long-term success.
