FarmerJawn Expands as Pennsylvania's Largest Black-Owned Farm, Emphasizing Regenerative Agriculture
Christa Barfield, founder of FarmerJawn, has established the largest Black-owned farm in Pennsylvania, focusing on regenerative organic agriculture. The farm, located on 128 acres, aims to serve underserved communities by providing equitable access to food and stable employment. Barfield's journey into farming began after a transformative trip to Martinique, where she experienced a community-based food production model. Despite facing challenges such as housing insecurity and racial threats, Barfield has grown FarmerJawn into a recognized entity, earning a James Beard Award and contributing to state-level agricultural leadership. The farm is now eligible for regenerative organic certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices.