CAC Beardsley Community Farm

CAC Beardsley Community Farm is an urban demonstration site that promotes food security and sustainable agriculture through practice, education, and community outreach. We began our mission in 1998 with the support of Knox County CAC and the City of Knoxville, and today we are continuing to grow.The half-acre demonstration farm sits on the former grounds of Beardsley Junior High School, in the Mechanicsville neighborhood. Over the years, our planting areas expanded into the seven acre Malcom-Martin Park, which now graciously hosts a variety of raised beds, community gardens, and a fruit and berry orchard. Beardsley is staffed by a full-time farm manager, an assistant farm manager, and a team of AmeriCorps members. However, our work would never be done without the thousands of volunteers and interns who give their time to help grow healthy food for a hungry community.

We exist to educate people of all ages about the possibilities and methods of organic and sustainable urban gardening. We give support and tools to community members to help them grow their own food, and teach about the financial and environmental benefits of home food production. We also provide fresh produce to people in need. All of the vegetables raised at CAC Beardsley Farm are donated to local food pantries, food kitchens, and other charities. Finally, we host a thriving WorkShare CSA where local residents can volunteer in exchange for food. The farm is able to host volunteers and visitors alike Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 9am-12pm and 1pm-3pm.