Kelli Martin Brew, Program Coordinator for the University of Florida’s (UF) Field and Fork Farm and Gardens, thrives in her role by helping students and Gainesville come together to learn about sustainable agriculture and food security.
Brew’s journey at UF is a testament to her commitment to education and food security. From working in human resources to editing a book on school gardening, Brew has spent over 25 years immersed in the local food system. Her past positions, including coordinating food donations for those in need, have given her a unique perspective on the importance of local agriculture.
In her role as the program coordinator at the Field and Fork Farm and Gardens, Brew works directly with students and members of all ages in the community. The farm and gardens is located at 1062 Museum Rd, Gainesville, FL. Brew oversees tours, coordinates volunteers, and fosters connections, all while serving as a vital link between those with knowledge and those eager to learn. Scheduling tours contributes to one of Brew’s main goals, outreach.
The farm and garden address food insecurity among students, a growing concern on college campuses nationwide. Many students face challenges in accessing affordable, nutritious food, which can impact their academic performance and overall well-being. By donating fresh produce to the Alan and Cathy Hitchcock Field & Fork Pantry, the Field and Fork Farm and Gardens plays a key role in alleviating these issues, creating a safety net for those who might otherwise go without.
Despite its successes, the garden faces significant challenges, particularly as the university continues to expand. Brew acknowledged the constant threat of losing space to new buildings and developments, which poses a unique risk to the garden's existence and growth.
“It's hard to grow bigger as an agriculture project here,” Brew said.
The garden serves as a living classroom where students can learn about sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and the importance of local food systems. The loss of land could impose a potential loss of the community resources and educational opportunities that the garden provides.
Through innovative programs, Brew has built a bridge between the garden and the Gainesville community. Collaborating with a local chef, she teaches students and community members how to cook with fresh produce, making healthy meals accessible and fun.
“He understands that everybody doesn't come to the pantry with this knowledge of how to make up a recipe or a whole lot of kitchen equipment. So, he's really good at teaching the basics, and also giving license to be creative” Brew said.
This initiative is essential, especially in a time when supply chains have been disrupted, underscoring the importance of local agriculture for food security.
For those eager to learn more about the Field and Fork Farm and Gardens, Brew encourages visiting. She and her team are actively working on enhancing signage throughout the garden, which will soon allow for self-guided tours. She hopes that this will help strengthen the connection between the Gainesville community and UF, something she refers to as a “town-gown” relationship.
Brew’s vision for the garden is not just about growing food; it’s about developing a deeper understanding of sustainability and the cultural significance of agriculture. She sees the potential for the garden to serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, fostering connections within the university.
"We need to bridge gaps between departments and the community," Brew said.
Looking to the future, Brew feels optimistic about the garden’s trajectory, envisioning ongoing growth in its educational and outreach initiatives. The potential for Field and Fork to create a meaningful impact is significant.
She hopes that the program will continue to flourish for years to come.
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About the Authors
Savanah Freitag is a senior at the University of Florida, majoring in Agricultural Education and Communication with a specialization in Communication and Leadership Development. Post-graduation she hopes to continue her education by attending law school to pursue a career in Agricultural Law.
Peyton Chandley, a senior at the University of Florida, is majoring in Agricultural Education and Communication with a specialization in Communication and Leadership Development. She is also earning minors in Sales and Management in Agribusiness and Leadership. Upon graduation, she plans to pursue a career dedicated to advocating for the agricultural industry.
Photography credits: Savanah Freitag, Peyton Chandley, Jamie Loizzo, and UF/IFAS database