Dandelion Forest Farm – Nottingham, New Hampshire
Grant Award: $4,971
Project: Purchase a commercial leaf shredder to produce mulch that supports agroforestry, regenerative practices, soil health, erosion control, and water retention.
Outcome: With grant support, Dandelion Forest Farm acquired a commercial leaf mulcher that has transformed its ability to manage organic matter at scale. This fall, the team processed approximately eighty cubic yards of locally sourced leaves and applied them across its farm beds, dramatically expanding soil-building capacity. What was once too labor-intensive is now a core regenerative practice that insulates the soil through the winter, suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and feeds crops as the mulch breaks down.
By turning an abundant local resource into a powerful soil amendment, the farm is strengthening long-term fertility while reducing waste and labor strain. The investment not only improves sustainability and climate resilience but also enables the farm to grow food more efficiently for the communities it serves.
