A unique team of agroforestry nonprofit and for-profit partners working to reintroduce diversified, multifunctional windrows and riparian buffer plantings across the Midwest.
Working in collaboration, an agroforestry-focused nonprofit, a for-profit agroforestry community-investor company, and an agroforestry-focused nonprofit land trust can achieve a new model for demonstrating long-term stewardship, reconnecting endangered native habitats, and permanently protecting productive agroforestry landscapes.
Catalyzing the development and adoption of resilient, scalable agroforestry through education, direct technical assistance to farmers, demonstration farms, and ongoing innovations and research related to agroforestry. In 2020, Savanna Institute installed 25 acres of windrow plantings at Rock Creek — approximately 10,000 trees from 25 native species.
Establishing nonprofit agroforestry nurseries and community food forests on land held in trust and permanently protected. PPLT promotes education and learning environments and works to permanently protect agroforestry lands. In 2024, PPLT partnered with RCA to develop a conservation strategy.
A Public Benefit Company that provides farmer-friendly leases and mortgages to the next generation of organic farmers. IQVR acquired the original Rock Creek parcels from 2012 through 2021, building the 450-acre campus that anchors the project.
Providing design and consulting services for the agroforestry landscape, including species selection, planting design, and long-term management planning for the windbreak, orchard, and riparian areas.
Conservation and riparian development, easements and funding — working to protect Rock Creek's waterways and develop conservation easements that ensure long-term stewardship of the landscape.
A native plant nursery specializing in Illinois-native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. A key supplier for Rock Creek's restoration and agroforestry plantings.
Three complementary approaches working together.
Agroforestry design, implementation, stewardship, and advocacy through the Savanna Institute and aligned organizations.
For-profit community investing in tree crop production through Rock Creek Agroforestry LLC, engaging impact investors and community capital.
Stewardship of agroforestry planting sites as a commons, held in trust for community benefit through Permaculture Living Lands Trust.
Interested in collaborating on regenerative agriculture and agroforestry in the Midwest? We'd love to hear from you.
Get in Touch