Niyi and Tope of Dodo Farms are moving their operation to Howard County
In 2018 we were so thrilled to match Niyi Balogun and Tope Fajingbesi with their first acre of land and a solid landowner partner through our Land Link program. From the start it was clear that they were determined to find success growing Certified Naturally Grown produce on their acre in Brookeville. First they sold at one market, then two, they started growing for Manna Food Center. The press came calling to tell their story about Niyi's move from Nigeria and his instance to continue farming here in Montgomery County, along with Tope's accounting background creating a thriving farm business. They mentored other farmers and engaged in strengthening the Ag sector in the County. ( See the farmer summit at Dodo Farms)
Dodo Farms quickly grew out of one acre and started looking for more space. They leased 4 more acres at their same original property but were still looking for a way to live where they farm and own the land to make long term infrastructure investments worthwhile.
They have just bought 10 acres in Howard County and we could not be happier to have them achieve what they have wanted for so long.
Dodo Farms quickly grew out of one acre and started looking for more space. They leased 4 more acres at their same original property but were still looking for a way to live where they farm and own the land to make long term infrastructure investments worthwhile.
They have just bought 10 acres in Howard County and we could not be happier to have them achieve what they have wanted for so long.
But - all the same, it is troubling they were not able to access land here in Montgomery County.
While Land Link is matching land seekers with land to lease, overcoming the high price of land to buy is still very difficult. We worry our county will loose seasoned farmers and Ag community collaborators like Niyi and Tope to reasonably priced land elsewhere after they have built a life and customer base in Montgomery County.
All this shines a light on a new ZTA proposal at the County Council that seeks to redefine farming to allow commercial lodging on protected farmland.
When non-farmers can buy up land in the Ag Reserve for non farm uses - farmers like Niyi and Tope simply can't compete - in the only part of the county set aside for farming.
If you have not already, please write the Council on ZTA 23-09.
We will of course still be offering support to our partners at Dodo Farms and you can still find them at the Silver Spring and Dupont Circle Farmers Markets.
You can keep up with Dodo Farms' move here.
While Land Link is matching land seekers with land to lease, overcoming the high price of land to buy is still very difficult. We worry our county will loose seasoned farmers and Ag community collaborators like Niyi and Tope to reasonably priced land elsewhere after they have built a life and customer base in Montgomery County.
All this shines a light on a new ZTA proposal at the County Council that seeks to redefine farming to allow commercial lodging on protected farmland.
When non-farmers can buy up land in the Ag Reserve for non farm uses - farmers like Niyi and Tope simply can't compete - in the only part of the county set aside for farming.
If you have not already, please write the Council on ZTA 23-09.
We will of course still be offering support to our partners at Dodo Farms and you can still find them at the Silver Spring and Dupont Circle Farmers Markets.
You can keep up with Dodo Farms' move here.
