Building Bridges: El Paso County Citizens Tour Lower Ark Farms

We had the privilege of hosting a farm tour for a passionate group of folks from Colorado Springs and El Paso County. These community leaders understand the connection and impacts that growth in their community has on our rural agricultural communities in the Lower Arkansas Valley.

Our friends got to experience the vibrant energy of a rural farm market, learn about the production and distribution of Rocky Ford melons, and hear about the importance and art of honey extraction. The day was filled with building deeper friendships between our communities and connecting farmers with our urban neighbors.

The afternoon brought deeper reflection with the Carter family and the Heritage Center in Crowley County, where we explored the lasting impacts of water transfers and the hard truths of a county that has lost over 90% of its irrigated agriculture.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible friends and partners: Knapp’s Farm Market, Hirakata Farms, Hidden Hive Honey, Matt & Alvin Carter, and The Heritage Center. Thank you for opening your doors, sharing your stories, and keeping our heritage alive.