Blackwood Educational Land Institute

Founded with a mission to model and teach the indispensable role of restorative, sustainable food systems, this 33-acre farm in Hempstead, TX has become a beacon for educational programming. Known for its diverse offerings, the farm provides tours, field trips, overnight stays, a farm school, and camps for youth, while adults and families can engage in CSA programs, farm-to-table dinners, retreats, and volunteer opportunities. The farm's land includes cultivated areas and preserved ecosystems such as coastal prairie, post-oak savannah, and pine barrens.

The farm is dedicated to exploring and practicing restorative agricultural techniques, aiming to inspire and prepare the next generation of farmers and ecologists. Emphasizing the importance of understanding food origins and healthy food systems, the farm instills a strong work ethic in youth. Their approach integrates the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, including turnips, peas, daikon, swiss chard, and many more, alongside the production of eggs, honey, and preserves.

Visitors can participate in various programs such as Nature Camp, Farm School, and Skyfarmers Market. The farm also hosts open farm days, classes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. The founder, Cath Conlon, emphasizes the importance of innovative thinking and experimentation in solving future ecological challenges. The farm's mission is to create a conscious generation for a regenerative agricultural future.