About Us

What is Big Muddy

Founded in 2012, Big Muddy Urban Farm is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to making sustainable agriculture education accessible to all. We do this through hosting and training future food systems leaders through our nine-month Aspiring Farmer Residency, teaching children at a neighborhood youth garden, and hosting farm tours to spread knowledge throughout the community. Big Muddy runs weekly food distribution, farmers market sales, and a community supported agriculture (CSA) program to alleviate hunger and provide training opportunities for our Residents. To make this possible, we transform vacant lots into active, biodiverse, and productive spaces within Omaha and work with our neighbors to improve our community.

History

Big Muddy Urban Farm had its start as a collection of seven aspiring urban farmers meeting in the winter of 2011-2012 to discuss growing in the city. In the spring of 2012, the seven planted their first seeds across five plots throughout Omaha for a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. By 2014, several members acquired their own farms out of town and Big Muddy centralized in the Gifford Park neighborhood. In 2015, the Gifford Park Neighborhood Association became Big Muddy's fiscal sponsor on its path to becoming a nonprofit. In 2017, Big Muddy was recognized as a 501c3 nonprofit and began its Aspiring Farmer Residency, training six new farmers. In 2022, Big Muddy's founding Executive Director and one of its co-founders transitioned out of the organization after a decade in the field. Brent handed the organization over to a Program Manager and a Grants & Finance Manager. The organization is excited for the next ten years of Big Muddy.