CAC Beardsley Community Farm

Founded in 1998 with the support of Knox County CAC and the City of Knoxville, the farm began its mission on the grounds of the former Beardsley Junior High School in the Mechanicsville neighborhood. Over the years, planting areas expanded into the seven-acre Malcom-Martin Park, which now hosts a variety of raised beds, community gardens, and a fruit and berry orchard. The farm is staffed by a full-time farm manager, an assistant farm manager, and a team of AmeriCorps members, supported by thousands of volunteers and interns.

The farm educates people of all ages about organic and sustainable urban gardening, providing support and tools to community members to help them grow their own food. It emphasizes the financial and environmental benefits of home food production and donates all vegetables raised to local food pantries, food kitchens, and other charities. The farm also hosts a WorkShare CSA where local residents can volunteer in exchange for food. Committed to regenerative practices, the farm works to mitigate the impact of climate change and acknowledges the traditional land of the Tsalaguwetiyi (Cherokee, East) and Tsoyaha (Yuchi) People.

The farm provides culturally relevant produce, accessible education about growing and cooking fresh foods, and land and resources for gardening, particularly to low to moderate income communities. It works with local organizations and volunteers to increase food security in Knoxville. The farm is open to volunteers and visitors Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 9am-12pm and 1pm-3pm. Upcoming events include monthly community workdays and an annual Harvest Fest.