The Graze V.116: A Co-op in the Forest

Dear Friends:

Mission Farm is in the midst of a great forest - there are stands of sugar maple and birch; cherry and white pine. We are fortunate to have a small network of trails (open to the public) that weave through these forests. They were developed years ago and are managed carefully today by dedicated volunteers. You can view the full Mission Farm Forestry Plan here.

“A forest is much more than what you see” Suzanne Simard discovered the language of trees. (See her Ted Talk here. ) Trees communicate. They are “Co-operators” in the forest. They communicate their needs through roots and myecelium. Individual plants in the forest who are in more need than others, are tended to by the trees around them. Together the trees in the forest form a community that communicates and can transfer water, nitrogen, carbon and other nutrients to those in need. Imagine that reciprocity as a model for our own community at and around Mission Farm.

As we grow as a Church and as an organization, we are finding new ways to connect as a cooperative. Our trails, our community spaces - a new amphitheater and meadow, the (soon to be renovated) bakery and the guest house are all opportunities to live into our call to be that cooperative community that upholds the whole of the forest.

Join us in the orchard this Sunday, July 17 at 9:30 for our Orchard Blessing and Holy Communion. As always, everyone is welcome - both in person and on line.

In sacred co-operation,

Lisa