In Fort Washakie, the Wind River Food Sovereignty Project has made significant strides with a 30-acre farm. Initially, the land only produced hay, but over the last two years, it has transformed into a vibrant space filled with squash, melons, and a newly built high tunnel for growing vegetables.
Recently, a new elder garden was opened, designed for the community’s elders. Kelly Pingree, co-director of the project, shared its importance: “This garden is a sanctuary—a place for healing and connecting with nature.” Community members gathered to celebrate, singing, praying, and enjoying traditional foods like buffalo stew and chokecherry gravy.
The elder garden is part of a larger vision to improve local food access and education. This project is fueled by a $36 million federal redevelopment grant aimed at revitalizing communities on the Wind River Reservation. According to recent studies, access to healthy foods is crucial for reducing obesity and diabetes rates among Indigenous populations. This initiative addresses those needs directly.
Founded in 2018 by Hank Herrera, the Wind River Food Sovereignty Project focuses on restoring food traditions. After Herrera’s passing in 2020, the team continued his dream of creating a farm that connects people with traditional foods and agricultural practices. Finding suitable land took years, but by late 2023, they purchased Trout Creek Farm, thanks to private donations and significant grants.
This summer, staff cleared and prepared the land, planted seeds, and began educational initiatives. The recent opening of the elder garden attracted not just elders, but families and young adults, fostering a strong sense of community. People enjoyed chokecherry tea and learned about native plants like cattails and amaranth.
Pingree emphasized the importance of this farm. “It’s about choosing our own food ways and reconnecting to the land,” she said. The project aims to get fresh produce into schools, restaurants, and food banks, and to offer plots for families to grow their own food.
As the project grows, it hopes to teach traditional agricultural methods and promote healthier choices among community members. By connecting with the land and honoring their heritage, members can take pride in their choices and foster a healthier future. This journey isn’t just about farming; it’s about reviving a culture and building a stronger community.
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