The Land Conservancy is delighted to announce the fundraising campaign to protect Madrona Farm will be extended by 60 days. The new deadline of March 15, 2010 will allow TLC the crucial time needed to find the remaining $730,000 and save the farm.
Since May 2008, thousands of citizens have contributed to the campaign, and the movement to protect this farm for its biological diversity as well as for its local food production for future generations has become contagious.
David and Nathalie Chambers celebrate the good news about the extension on Madrona Farm
“We are at the peak of the campaign right now in terms of public support,” says Bill Turner, Executive Director at TLC. “Every day the donations continue to pour in and never before have we seen so many contributions of $1,000 cheques. This level of commitment is truly inspiring. Now with this extra time we can really put the campaign into high gear and bring it home.”
On top of the generosity of individuals, local restaurants held fundraising events, chefs showed their love for local produce at the Island Chefs’ Survival events, artists held auctions, and people donated in lieu of birthday gifts. Most recently, Ed Johnson, Chair of the Farmlands Trust, issued a personal challenge to anyone willing to donate $200,000 which he will match.
Located 10 minutes from downtown Victoria on rich soils at the foot of Mount Douglas Park, Madrona Farm provides food to over 3,500 homes in the Greater Victoria area. The 27-acre farm produces a diversity of 105 crops, 12 months a year. Hundreds of customers visit the farm stand each week, local chefs rely on the farm for fresh vegetables, and food banks and shelters receive donations from Madrona.
Bill Turner, TLC's Executive Director in front of the Madrona Farm thermometer. Please note the new deadline is now March 15, 2010.
The race is on to secure Madrona Farm as an innovative model for sustainable agriculture. Once protected, David and Nathalie Chambers will be provided with the first long-term lease to continue farming while providing education and training for apprentices.
Please donate today at www.conservancy.bc.ca, www.madronafarm.com or by calling 1-877-485-2422.
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Contact:
Bill Turner, The Land Conservancy, bturner@conservancy.bc.ca, 250-589-8024
Nathalie Chambers, Madrona Farm, madrama@telus.net, 250-477-3093
