Growing Community and Planting Wild Roots
Growing Community and Planting Wild Roots
Wild Roots Farm follows Mary Colombo, a former geologist who left her corporate career to pursue farming and community-centered food production. Colombo built Wild Roots Farm with the support of Oregon's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and East Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), receiving assistance for high tunnels, hedgerows, irrigation upgrades and essential farm infrastructure. These conservation-focused investments have expanded her growing season, improved habitat for wildlife and pollinators, reduced wind damage and strengthened the farm’s productivity.
Colombo highlights how collaborative, locally grounded programs empower beginning farmers, help them overcome financial barriers and build resilient, sustainable farm businesses rooted in community.