Progress report for FNC24-1427
Project Information
The Founding minister of Ma'at 9 Incorporated is Stebo Ma'at, serving as the Chief Elder of the Kemetic Rastafari Temple. Stebo has over 30 years gardening, recently ventured into farming to address core issues affecting food security and community welfare. Teamed with his partner Kristin Duckett, an educator, they embody a deep commitment to principles such as justice, balance, harmony, and order—fundamental tenets of Ma'at that guide their actions and decisions as the business entity Ma'at Urban Agriculture & Industries (MUA & I) founded by the ministry.
Kristin Duckett, an educator with previous IRB certification, plays a crucial role in shaping the educational aspects of MUA & I. Her background as a teacher enriches the organization's approach to disseminating knowledge on regenerative agriculture. Previously IRB-certified, Kristin is an outstanding asset for data collection and analysis, ensuring that the educational initiatives align with ethical research standards.
Community Engagement & Impact:
We aim not only to teach regenerative agriculture but also to inspire a societal shift towards sustainability. The emphasis on "Kasserian Ingera" (How are the children?) underscores a collective responsibility for the well-being of future generations. In addition to their farming initiatives, MUA & I is actively engaged in community outreach, hosting free workshops, and collaborating with schools and local institutions. We have established three Urban Farms here in the city as a start for our Ma'at Urban Farm Network. We began hosting regenerative agriculture workshops at our first garden site 2 years ago and, now also at others around the city since. This past year, our Regenerative Urban Farming curriculum, complete with plants and growing setups, was implemented in three elementary schools in Indianapolis taught by Kristin. Our initiatives, including Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens (HHRG), wheelchair-accessible gardens, and educational programs, promote inclusivity and provide opportunities for education and employment for everyone, including disabled individuals and veterans.
MUA & I pioneers Urban Regenerative Farming, forming the Ma'at Urban Farm Network. This revolutionary approach makes farming both viable and attractive to future generations. Requiring minimal labor and inputs, these methods ensure sustainability and prosperity. The organization envisions a replicable model for widespread adoption, uniquely emphasizing survival food crops. Stebo Ma'at's visionary leadership, coupled with Kristin Duckett's educational expertise, positions MUA & I as leaders in regenerative agriculture, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and community-centric farming.
Saturday
MUA & I addresses critical challenges in the realms of food
security, sustainable agriculture, and community well-being. Our
primary focus is on regenerative agriculture, a holistic approach
that's furthering sustainability by actively restoring ecosystems
and prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and community
engagement.
The core issue we're addressing is the conventional, centralized
food production model that often leads to environmental
degradation, loss of biodiversity, and limited community access
to fresh, nutritious food. Additionally, the lack of inclusivity
in traditional farming practices excludes disabled individuals
and veterans from participating in meaningful agricultural
activities.
Our mission involves research and education to revolutionize the
current farming paradigm. We're introducing Urban Regenerative
Farming, employing innovative methods that require fewer
resources, and less labor, and yet yield high-quality,
nutrient-dense crops. Through educational programs, workshops,
and partnerships with schools, we aim to empower individuals,
especially the next generation, the knowledge and skills to
implement regenerative agriculture.
Furthermore, our commitment extends to community well-being,
incorporating wheelchair-accessible gardens, providing
opportunities for those with disabilities, and fostering a sense
of environmental stewardship. MUA & I is pioneering a
sustainable, regenerative future that not only ensures food
security but also nurtures thriving communities and ecosystems.
MUA & I's visionary initiative, Urban Regenerative Farming, is a
holistic solution to critical challenges in black urban
communities, focusing on reshaping the conventional food
production model into a decentralized and community-centric
approach with the Ma'at Urban Farm Network. This groundbreaking
project seeks to replace the outdated centralized food production
model with a dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive system,
fostering abundant food sources in black communities.
The trial component of this initiative involves the establishment
of research plots in diverse urban settings, strategically
employing Regenerative Urban Farming practices. Central to this
is the implementation of Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens (HHRG), an
innovative technique that optimizes growing space, cultivates
fresh and healthy soil, and eliminates traditional practices like
tilling and weeding. These plots will integrate food forest
guilds, high-density spacing, and intercropping, mirroring
natural ecosystems. The aim is to create an urban farming system
that demands less labor while promoting biodiversity, soil
health, and long-term sustainability.
A key element of this sustainable approach is the incorporation
of mushrooms into the urban farming system. The symbiotic
relationship between mushrooms and crops will be explored,
enhancing soil health, nutrient cycling, and overall system
resilience. This innovative integration aims to create a diverse
range of nutrient-dense, high-calorie food sources, ensuring food
security and resilience within the urban environment.
For the demonstration and education aspect of the project, MUA &
I will develop an online Regenerative Urban Farming Course. This
course will utilize cutting-edge teaching methods, multimedia
elements, and real-world case studies to convey sustainable
agriculture practices. To complement the online component, an
outdoor classroom will be constructed at the feature garden,
providing a hands-on training environment for participants where
they will have access to come and work in the garden applying the
learned techniques. This dynamic learning space will facilitate
practical experiences, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of
sustainable farming practices.
The objectives of this solution are not only to conduct research
on the viability and productivity of Regenerative Urban Farming
practices but also to disseminate this knowledge widely. By
creating an online course, conducting workshops, and
collaborating with schools, Ma'at 9 aims to inspire and educate
the next generation of farmers. Furthermore, the project seeks to
create work-study materials, present findings at the Black LOAM
conference, and develop a replicable model that can be adopted
across urban communities, fostering a regenerative and
sustainable future.
Objectives:
-
Establish research plots in urban settings to evaluate the
effectiveness of Regenerative Urban Farming practices,
including HHRG and integrated food forest guilds. -
Cultivate staple crops, vegetables, and mushrooms in the
research plots to assess the viability and productivity of
this integrated approach. -
Develop and implement an online Regenerative Urban Farming
Course, using innovative teaching methods and real-world case
studies. -
Construct an outdoor classroom with a wheelchair-accessible
garden at the feature garden for hands-on training,
reinforcing sustainable practices. -
Explore symbiotic relationships between mushrooms and crops
within the urban farming system for enhanced sustainability
and food production. -
Promote the decentralized community-based farming model
through community outreach, workshops, and collaboration with
schools. -
Create work-study materials from research, present findings
at the Black LOAM conference, and develop a replicable model
for widespread adoption in urban communities.
Research
The Ma’at Urban Farm Network™ (MUFN™) initiative focused on building regenerative urban farming systems to address critical challenges in Black urban communities, such as food security and environmental sustainability. The program implemented research plots across Indianapolis to test innovative farming techniques, including Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens™ (HHRGs™), container gardening, and other regenerative methods.
We have an online course and in person workshops that we teach the principles of Regenerative Urban Farming. We have different levels of study to meet people where they are. We have our full 8 module course online that we present to the community for certification. This certification shows that those who have participated and succeeded are familiar with the principles of regenerative farming and can work with us or any of our community farmers, or use the knowledge and skills gained to create their own Regenerative Urban Farm (RUF™). It is our aim to create a decentralized community based food production system to grow staple crops and introduce forgotten native foods into the diaspora. We want to inspire the next generation of growers by appealing to them with crops that require little to no inputs to provide nutrient rich and dense food for the community.
Site Establishment
Primary Research Plots:
- MUFN™ #1: 2617 N. Temple Ave., Indianapolis, IN
- MUFN™ #2: 1300 N. White River Pkwy Dr W., Indianapolis, IN
- MUFN™ #3: Private site, West Indianapolis, IN
BB MUFN™ #2 - MUFN™ #4: 1141 N. Sheffield Ave., Indianapolis, IN
Each site was strategically selected for diverse urban environments to evaluate the performance of the regenerative techniques in different conditions. Sites included soil beds, Hugelkultur raised beds, and container systems.
Cultivation Practices
We have selected the Red Fuseau variety of Jerusalem artichokes for cultivation due to its exceptional qualities that align with our goals and regional needs. This variety is highly sought after for its premium price point, making it a valuable crop for the economic development of the ADOS community. Its sweet flavor profile enhances its versatility as a food source, appealing to chefs, consumers, and specialty markets. Additionally, the Red Fuseau variety is cold-hardy, making it well-suited to the Midwest's climate and ensuring reliable production even in harsher conditions.
The striking deep red color of the tubers adds a visual significance that aligns with our branding of SunfRoots™, symbolizing vitality, resilience, and connection to the earth. This radiant color also enhances its appeal in gourmet markets, contributing to its higher value. By choosing this variety, we aim to maximize its potential for both sustainability and profitability, showcasing how regenerative agriculture can integrate cultural significance, food security, and economic empowerment.
SunfRoots™ are in 20 gallon pots are nearing a foot tall
- Jerusalem Artichokes (SunfRoots™):
- Planting: Tubers were planted in March, starting with less than 3 lbs across MUFN™ sites. The Tubers averaged about 2" in diameter. They were planted 4-8 inches deep and 12"-18" apart in the arrangement that follows:
- MUFN™ #1 Djheuty Garden 10- 20 Gallon fabric pots, 2 HHRGs 10' X 2', HHRG 3' X 4', 3 raised beds 18" X 24", 4 raised beds 18" x 36", 1 raised bed 10' x 2'
- MUFN™ #2 Belmont Beach 1 HHRG 8' x 2'
- MUFN ™# 3 West in ground native soil 15' row and amended soil 20' row
- MUFN™ #4 APA Bucket rack and GroTubes™
- Growth Observations: Plants grew to 10 ft by September, flowering and thriving with minimal to no external water inputs. No pests or disease. One of the HHRGs at MUFN™ #1 showed some rot that is suspected to have come from the wood mulch layer in the bed.
- Harvest: Began in October with yields of 147.2 lbs from MUFN™ #1, #2, and #3, with additional tubers still unharvested. Yields ranged from 3–10 lbs per plant, and tubers showed excellent quality with deep red hues.
- Lessons Learned: Suitable for regenerative systems due to low maintenance, high output, and cultural and nutritional significance in addressing ADOS health disparities.
- Sweet Potatoes:
- Standard varieties thrived in the cloth pots while Beni Imo sweet potatoes faced challenges due to unsuitable soil in HHRG. Adjustments are planned for the next growing season.
3. Amaranth: - Successfully cultivated, producing seeds and greens adaptable to urban farming systems. These thrived in the GroTubes™.
- Container Gardening & GroTubes:
- Utilized 20-gallon fabric pots, 5-gallon buckets, and GroTubes (made from weed fabric) to maximize growing space in minimal areas, such as porches or pavement. These systems demonstrated success with crops like SunfRoots™ and leafy greens. We created something that we call GroTubes™. These were made by taking weed fabric and sowing it together in a tube and tying the ends up with zip ties filling them with soil and burning holes in the fabric to plant in. This technique allows us to plant anywhere in the urban setting. Using mulch underneath was also good for water retention as the water could be wicked into the soil as it dried out.
- Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens™(HHRGs):
- Constructed from repurposed shipping pallets filled with fresh wood chips and natural compost. This accelerated soil maturity, reduced labor, and supported productive growth of SunfRoots™ and other crops. These boxes are what what MUA & I™ are known for and started as regenerative methods for the urban setting.
Educational Outreach
- Workshops & Community Engagement:
- A total of 15 workshops were conducted between April and October 2024.
- Topics included regenerative farming techniques, soil and water ecology, garden maintenance, pest control, and food preservation.
- Over 100 participants attended these workshops, ranging from hands-on gardening to mini-RUF sessions, local schools and community centers.
2. Online Course Development:
- Initiated development of the Regenerative Urban Farming™ Certification Course, integrating lessons learned from the research plots. We are developing the course further to include our new findings and innovations.
3. Community Impact:
- Distributed samples of Jerusalem artichokes at the Black LOAM Conference to introduce the crop to local farmers. Feedback indicated strong interest in its potential for food and fuel applications.
- Recruited other farmers and ranchers to get involved in growing this crop as a community and addition to our MUFN™ in 2025.
- Hosted a certification for the Fay Biccard Glick Community Center for their teen staff to teach them RUF™ to implement in their community garden.
Key Findings
- Jerusalem Artichokes:
- Adaptability to diverse urban soils, with high resilience and productivity even under minimal input conditions.
- Low-maintenance nature and high yields make them ideal for urban regenerative farming systems.
- Their nutritional benefits (helping manage diabetes, anemia, and gut health) further align with the needs of ADOS communities.
- Exceptionally high yield per small investment. These tubers average 20:1 on planting.
- HHRG and Container Systems:
- Reduced labor intensity and high productivity compared to traditional farming methods.
- Flexibility of GroTubes and container gardens enables non-permanent, space-efficient farming for urban settings.
- Symbiotic Systems:
- Preparations are underway to integrate mushrooms into regenerative systems in Year Two, adding biodiversity and supporting nutrient cycling.
Adjustments and Challenges
- Storm Damage:
- Thunderstorms in September caused wind damage to SunfRoot™ plants, particularly in container systems, providing insights into the need for structural support in high winds.
- Soil Suitability:
- Lessons learned from Beni Imo sweet potato trials emphasized the importance of soil amendments and proper bed preparation.
- Outdoor Classroom Delay:
- Relocation plans for MUFN™ #1 postponed the construction of the classroom, which will be addressed in Year Two.
At Ma’at Urban Agriculture & Industries LLC™, our mission is deeply rooted in fostering regenerative urban farming practices to address food insecurity and economic disparities in the ADOS community. This year, we introduced SunfRoots™, our carefully branded cultivar of Jerusalem artichokes, as the epitome of regenerative agriculture. SunfRoots™ represent resilience, sustainability, and abundance. As a perennial crop, they regenerate annually without replanting and can remain in the ground for extended harvest, making them the ultimate survival food. Through our innovative cultivation techniques, such as Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens™ (HHRGs) and GroTubes, we’ve created accessible, high-yield farming systems suitable for urban environments. Our goal is to demonstrate that crops like SunfRoots™ can transform urban food systems, foster community self-sufficiency, and introduce new economic opportunities through food and biofuel industries.
- Jerusalem Artichokes (SunfRoots™):
2 days before the storm that would knock some down.
- Yield: Across the three main MUFN™ sites, a total of 147.2 lbs of tubers was harvested from an initial planting of less than 3 lbs. There are other crops grown at these sites not included in this report. This report will only reference the sections pertinent to this study concerning the SunfRoots™.
- Growth Observations: Plants grew vigorously, reaching 10 ft by September. High-density planting techniques and minimal inputs yielded substantial returns, with 3-10 lbs per plant despite no external water inputs.
- Market Viability: With market prices averaging $20-$30 per pound, SunfRoots™ demonstrate significant financial potential. The perennial nature of the crop allows for long-term returns with minimal labor after the initial planting.
- Comparison with Conventional Systems: Unlike annual crops such as corn and soybeans that require intensive tilling, irrigation, and chemical inputs, SunfRoots™ were cultivated with no external fertilizers or water and thrived under minimal maintenance. This proves their suitability for decentralized farming models and resource-constrained urban environments.
- Sweet Potatoes:
- Varieties Tested: This was our first year growing potatoes and our red potatoes and standard sweet potatoes performed well, but the Beni Imo variety faced challenges due to unsuitable soil conditions. Adjustments, including soil amendments, are planned for the next growing season to address these issues.
- Amaranth:
- Results: Successfully produced greens and seeds, showcasing the crop's versatility and resilience. Amaranth requires minimal care and provides both nutritional and economic benefits, making it ideal for urban farms. It has value as a protein source and staple crop.
Integration of RUF Techniques
- Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens™ (HHRGs):
- Enabled low-labor, high-yield production for crops like Jerusalem artichokes and amaranth.
- Enhanced soil health through natural composting, eliminating the need for tilling or chemical fertilizers. Soil mix allowed for easy harvesting and easier cleaning of tubers.
- Proved effective for urban applications, where access to arable land is limited.
- Container Gardening (Fabric Pots and GroTubes):
- The project prove that the pots allow staple crops to grow successfully on hardscapes like pavement and porches ideal in the RUF application.
- Harvesting is easiest with cloth pots and ideal for scaling production.
- Demonstrated flexibility for urban farmers with limited land, aligning with the decentralized food production model.
Community and Financial Impact
- Cultural and Nutritional Significance:
- Jerusalem artichokes align with the needs of the ADOS (American Descendants of Slavery) community, addressing health issues such as diabetes, lupus, anemia, and gut health.
- Reintroducing this native crop fosters a cultural connection while providing a sustainable, high-value food source.
- Economic Potential:
- The possibility of producing 2,000-4,000 lbs per 1/4 acre demonstrates the crop's scalability and economic viability.
- With current market rates, even a small urban farm could generate substantial revenue, providing an incentive for community participation in decentralized farming networks.
- No waste due to tuber's ability to stay in the soil and harvested when needed. These can be harvestedf even through the winter if the ground isn't frozen.
- Decentralized Model for Food Security:
- By establishing the Ma’at Urban Farm Network (MUFN™) as both a research and production platform, we are building a applicable framework for decentralized food systems. This model can serve as an economic and food security solution for urban communities.
Jerusalem artichokes stand out as a cornerstone of our RUF™ model, proving to be low-maintenance, high-yield, and culturally significant. The implementation of HHRGs™ and container systems has validated their potential for urban applications, even in challenging environments with limited resources. The ability to achieve exponential yields with minimal labor underscores the scalability and sustainability of this crop.Our research and development of SunfRoots™ have shown remarkable potential in aligning with the principles of regenerative urban farming. Through decentralized growing models, including four established Ma’at Urban Farm Network (MUFN™) sites, we’ve proven the viability of cultivating this crop in diverse settings with minimal inputs. From food security to economic empowerment, SunfRoots™ embody our commitment to sustainability and community resilience. This year’s trials yielded over 147 pounds of tubers from less than 3 pounds of planting material, underscoring the crop’s prolific nature. By integrating education, innovation, and strategic partnerships, we are paving the way for a sustainable future where the ADOS community leads the charge in regenerative agriculture and economic independence.
While setbacks such as loss of planting data and soil challenges with Beni Imo sweet potatoes provided learning opportunities, the overall results demonstrate the feasibility and impact of our decentralized farming approach.
The integration of education, outreach, and production through workshops and online courses has amplified the community's engagement with regenerative practices. We are motivated to inspire the next generation to become Regenerative Urban Farmers and regenerative living. The responses we received from the other farmers and community members are promising for the seasons to come next. This project exemplifies how food production can intersect with cultural restoration, health, and sustainability, fostering justice, balance, and harmony in line with the principles of Ma’at.
Educational & Outreach Activities
Participation Summary:
Ma'at 9 INC. successfully hosted various workshops and educational sessions throughout the season to promote Regenerative Urban Farming (RUF). Every Wednesday, small workshops were conducted at the main garden, featuring a 4-hour class followed by a dinner for participants. In addition to these weekly sessions, Ma'at 9 INC. hosted full certification workshops, covering all 8 RUF modules in three 8-hour sessions over the season.
The program expanded to local schools, with instructor Kris implementing the RUF curriculum at Allegiant Prep Academy, where over 100 students participated in the program. Furthermore, Ma'at 9 INC. was invited by the Fay Biccard Glick Community Center to train their teen garden staff in RUF practices, conducting two intensive 8-hour sessions and building 3 HHRGs onsite.
Despite the wide reach and enthusiastic participation, completion rates for the online course hosted on Google Classroom were low. This highlighted the need for a more comprehensive and user-friendly course structure. Ma'at 9 INC. plans to improve course design by researching and integrating platforms with interactive AI capabilities to increase participant engagement, improve completion rates, and provide a more dynamic learning experience in future iterations of the program.
- A total of 15 workshops were conducted between April and October 2024.
- Topics included regenerative farming techniques, soil and water ecology, garden maintenance, pest control, and food preservation.
- Over 100 participants attended these workshops, ranging from hands-on gardening to mini-RUF sessions, local schools and community centers.
April 2024
4/17/24
- Topic: Prepping Your Garden for Planting
HHRGs
- Number of Attendees: 3
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed steps to get soil, tools, and starters/seeds ready for planting.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Fried Potatoes & SunfRoots™ and Sautéed Greens
4/20/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Starting Seeds
- Number of Attendees: 24
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: First workshop of the season, large turnout.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
4/24/24
- Topic: Planting & Soil
- Number of Attendees: 2 
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed what is needed to plant, how to prep the soil, and the importance of natural compost.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Slappy Joe’s (Chickpea Sloppy Joe) Sandwich & Chips
4/27/24
- Topic: The R.U.F: Certification Workshop: Intro to Regenerative Urban Farming, Soil Ecology, Water Ecology
- Number of Attendees: 9
- Location: 16 Tech
- Significance: First workshop, large attendance, very good reviews, food provided.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Salad Sandwiches & Chips, Curry Chickpeas, Quinoa, & Sautéed Greens
May 2024
5/1/24
- Topic: Garden Maintenance
- Number of Attendees: 3
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed best practices for preventing pests, controlling diseases, and adding natural soil additives to promote growth.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Salad Sandwiches & Chips
5/8/24
- Topic: Garden Woes, Issues, & Solutions
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Common issues, state-specific issues, pests, and natural remedies.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Spaghetti, Salad, & Garlic Bread
5/15/24
- Topic: Harvesting & Preservation
- Number of Attendees: 3
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed best harvesting methods, crop-specific storage tips, and ways to preserve your harvest.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Sautéed Greens, Cinnamon/Curry Chickpeas, and Fried Potatoes
5/18/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Garden Prep
- Number of Attendees: 3
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: Prepared garden space at Belmont Beach.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
5/22/24
- Topic: Harvesting & Overwintering
- Number of Attendees: 3
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: End-of-season harvesting tips, storage planning, and prepping the garden for winter.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Slappy Joe’s (Chickpea Sloppy Joe) Sandwich & Chips
5/29/24
- Topic: Intro to Regenerative Agriculture
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Introduces attendees to regenerative agriculture.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Spaghetti, Salad, & Garlic Bread
June 2024
6/5/24
- Topic: Soil Ecology
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Importance of soil, its contents, and how to conserve it.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Fried Potatoes & Sautéed Greens
6/12/24
- Topic: Water Ecology
- Number of Attendees: 1
sunroots are nearing a foot tall
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed water importance, threats, and conservation.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Salad Sandwich & Chips
6/19/24
- Topic: Understanding Plants
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed plant structure, common cultivars, and how plant structure impacts growth.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Slappy Joe’s (Chickpea Sloppy Joe) Sandwich & Chips
6/22/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Planting & Soil
- Number of Attendees: 8
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: Planted starters and started seeds.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
6/26/24
- Topic: Planting & Growing Basics
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed the basics of starting seeds, transplanting starters, and knowledge about common cultivars.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Curry Chickpeas, Quinoa, Sautéed Greens
6/29/24
- Topic: The R.U.F: Certification Workshop Part 2: Regenerative & Sustainable Agriculture, Foundational Understanding of Plants, and Planting & Growing Basics
- Number of Attendees: 6
- Location: 16 Tech
- Significance: Second workshop, food provided.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Salad Sandwich & Chips, Chickpea Spaghetti, Salad, Garlic Bread, Fruit Tray
July 2024
7/3/24
- Topic: Regenerative & Sustainable Agriculture
- Number of Attendees: 3
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed different regenerative & sustainable agriculture methods.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Fried Potatoes & Sautéed Greens
7/10/24
- Topic: Natural Garden Maintenance
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed natural ways to care for plants, remedy diseases, and deter pests.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Spaghetti, Salad, & Garlic Bread
7/17/24
- Topic: Harvesting Basics
- Number of Attendees: 2
- Location: Dhjeuty Garden
- Significance: Discussed how to harvest specific crops, how to store them, and preservation techniques.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Salad Sandwich & Chips
7/20/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Garden Maintenance
- Number of Attendees: 9
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: Brought in natural additives and pest controls.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
7/27/24
- Topic: The R.U.F: Certification Workshop Part 3: Natural Plant Maintenance, Harvesting Basics, Final HHRG Build
- Number of Attendees: 8
- Location: Djheuty Garden
- Significance: Located at the main garden, food provided, built raised HHRG.
- Length: 4 hrs
- Menu: Chickpea Taco Salad, Chickpea Salad Sandwich & Chips, and Fruit Tray
August 2024
8/24/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Garden Woes, Issues, & Solutions
- Number of Attendees: 6
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: Talked about common issues, long discussion about attendees' issues.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
September 2024
9/21/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Harvesting & Preservation
- Number of Attendees: 5
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: Pulled up plants, conducted final harvest.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
October 2024
10/19/24
- Topic: Mini R.U.F.: Harvesting & Overwintering
- Number of Attendees: 6 
- Location: Belmont Beach
- Significance: Last workshop of the season, roasted Jerusalem artichokes were a hit.
- Length: 1 hr
- Menu: Sandwiches, Wraps, & Chips
APA RUFIT Breakdown
Amount of students
- Allegiant Prep Academy is a K-5 charter school. The population is 97% black, 2% Hispanic, and 1% Other. Courses started 8/9/2023 and went until 12/20/23, resuming on 1/7/24 and ending the first year on 6/5/24. Our second year started on 9/7/24 and will break for the winter on 12/19/24. We will resume courses on 1/8/25 and ending for the second year on 6/4/24. During 23/24 school year we had approximately 157 students. This year we currently teach 135 students.
Breakdown of daily tasks
- During the warmer spring/fall months students are taught outside (weather permitting). The first year they were split into several smaller random groups. Each group had a task centered around soil sifting (for seed starting), filling seed cups, watering starters, planting seeds and guided transplanting. Harvesting, pest control, and soil additions were made by us. The second year students have been split into 2 consistent groups who alternate between doing the same activities we did last year and doing a coloring activity centered around farming, plants, or the weather. This change was suggested to avoid an overwhelming and chaotic experience. Since the switch to alternating groups classes are easier to control, less chaotic, more informative, more hands-on, easier to plan for, and are more enjoyable to the instructor. Students have also been having fewer behavior problems while being in the new group setting.
- During the winter months students learned, via powerpoint, several subjects which were contained in their garden journal. This included farm notes, pre-quizzes, post-quizzes, and activity sheets. Students would take the blind prequiz prior to the lesson to test their prior knowledge. We would instruct using the informative and aesthetically appealing slides, produced via Canva. Not only were the slides informative but we wanted to ensure that the child farmers we used as characters looked like the students and were based off Minister Stebo & Kris. Upon completing the instruction students were given the exact same quiz for their post quiz.
- I would grade their work and they had an opportunity to see it at the beginning of the next class. Students consistently performed higher on the post quiz. Surprisingly the lower grades (k-2) had a consistently higher improvement between the pre-quiz and the post-quiz.
Lessons covered
- The indoor powerpoint lessons that were covered:
- Soil Ecology: what is in soil, what threatens healthy soil, why is healthy soil important
- Water Ecology: what is in the water, what causes water contamination, how to harvest and conserve water
- Planting & Growing Basics: how to calculate seeds needed, how ot how to grow indoors, and the difference between direct sowing & transplanting a starter
- Understanding Plants: what photosynthesis is, importance of plant anatomy, common crops/pests, and the different types of plant lifespans.
Important event
- Our work was covered by several news outlets:
- https://mirrorindy.org/allegiant-preparatory-academy-students-take-up-regenerative-urban-farming/
- https://www.wishtv.com/news/local-news/haughville-school-uses-urban-farming-to-teach-students-how-to-start-their-own-gardens/
- https://www.farmersadvance.com/picture-gallery/news/education/2024/05/14/days-in-the-dirt-at-allegiant-prep-academy-as-students-learn-gardening/73671085007/
To share information about our project and its results, we implemented a multifaceted communication strategy:
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Sharing Project Results:
- Workshops and Classes: We communicated our findings through 15 workshops, including 7 in-depth certification sessions and 8 shorter community sessions, engaging over 100 participants. These events shared insights on regenerative practices, crop performance, and practical applications of the Ma’at Urban Farm Network (MUFN) model.
- Social Media Outreach: We actively shared updates, photos, and insights from the project on our social media platforms, engaging with a wider audience and encouraging discussions on SunfRoots™ and regenerative farming.
- Community Presentations: Our team presented project findings during local events and community gatherings, emphasizing the potential of decentralized, community-based food systems.
- Collaboration with Local Farmers: We provided samples and educational materials to local farmers and prospective growers, including those attending the Black LOAM conference, to encourage adoption of SunfRoots™ cultivation.
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Project Events and Activities:
- Announcements and Promotions: We promoted our workshops and events via flyers, local community boards, and social media platforms, ensuring broad awareness of our activities.
- Word of Mouth: Workshop attendees became key advocates, sharing their positive experiences and encouraging others to join our sessions.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with community organizations and schools allowed us to amplify our reach and bring more attendees to our workshops.
Future Communication Plans: We plan to expand our outreach by presenting at larger conferences, such as the Black LOAM conference, and publishing detailed reports and case studies on SunfRoots™ performance. Additionally, we aim to develop an online course and digital content to reach a national audience, continuing to inspire and educate communities about the potential of regenerative agriculture and SunfRoots™.
Learning Outcomes
This grant project has allowed us to develop and refine the Ma’at Urban Farm Network™ (MUFN™), a decentralized, community-based food production model that addresses critical food security and sustainability challenges in Black urban communities. Through this initiative, we’ve learned the transformative potential of regenerative agriculture in urban settings and how it can empower communities to take control of their food systems.
Key Learnings and Insights:
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Empowering Decentralized Food Production:
- The MUFN™ model demonstrates how decentralized farming can promote community resilience by distributing food production across multiple urban locations. By utilizing shared resources and regenerative techniques, MUFN™ creates an ecosystem where food production is not concentrated in one area but is spread across smaller, accessible plots.
- This model ensures that communities are less vulnerable to systemic disruptions, offering a solution to food deserts and promoting food sovereignty.
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Regenerative Practices and Community Impact:
- The use of Hugelkultur High Rise Gardens™ (HHRGs™), container gardening, and intercropping systems has shown that regenerative methods can yield high-value, nutrient-dense crops with minimal inputs.
- By implementing these techniques across MUFN™ sites, we’ve cultivated crops like SunfRoots™ (Red Fuseau Jerusalem artichokes), sweet potatoes, and amaranth, showcasing their adaptability and profitability in urban environments.
- SunfRoots™ stand out as a cornerstone of our model, offering a perennial, high-yield crop that thrives in low-input systems. With the potential to yield thousands of pounds per acre and a high price point in the market, SunfRoots™ present both an economic opportunity and a sustainable solution for urban farming.
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Economic and Cultural Significance:
- Through the cultivation of SunfRoots™ and other culturally significant crops, the MUFN model reconnects the ADOS community with ancestral farming practices while introducing innovative methods to make agriculture accessible and sustainable in urban settings.
- The decentralized model creates income opportunities for community partners, as well as educational pathways for the next generation of urban farmers, ensuring that knowledge and economic benefits are shared.
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Potential of Decentralized Food Systems:
- The MUFN initiative highlights how communities can achieve food security and economic independence by adopting a decentralized approach. This model minimizes reliance on traditional centralized food systems, which are often inaccessible or inequitable for marginalized populations.
- With scalable systems like GroTubes™ and fabric pots, the MUFN™ model can be replicated across other urban areas, creating a network of independent food producers contributing to local economies and environmental sustainability.
Overcoming Barriers and Challenges:
- Infrastructure and Education: Establishing decentralized plots required initial investments in infrastructure and education, but these efforts were offset by community engagement and shared resources.
- Storm Resilience: Crop damage from thunderstorms revealed the need for adaptive design strategies to ensure the durability of systems like HHRGs™ and container gardens.
Advantages of the MUFN™ Model:
- Accessibility: Makes farming viable for individuals with limited land, resources, or experience.
- Economic Potential: High-value crops like SunfRoots™ provide significant financial returns, especially when grown at scale.
- Community Empowerment: Encourages collaboration and fosters a sense of ownership within the community.
Recommendations for Other Farmers:
- Adopt Regenerative Practices: Focus on perennial, low-maintenance crops and systems like HHRGs™ to maximize productivity with minimal inputs.
- Engage the Community: A decentralized model thrives when built on strong partnerships and shared resources.
- Scale Gradually: Begin with small, manageable plots to refine techniques before expanding.
This project has underscored the immense potential of regenerative agriculture in transforming urban food systems and empowering communities. The MUFN model not only addresses immediate food security needs but also lays the foundation for long-term sustainability and economic growth, proving that decentralized farming is a viable and essential pathway for the future. Through this grant, we’ve taken significant strides in creating a replicable and scalable model that aligns with the principles of Ma’at—balance, justice, and harmony—to benefit the ADOS community and beyond.
Project Outcomes
A participant from the west side of Indianapolis, a retired factory worker and avid gardener, attended one of our Mini R.U.F. workshops in July 2024. Intrigued by the idea of growing SunfRoots™ (Red Fuseau Jerusalem artichokes), he decided to give them a try after learning about their low-maintenance cultivation, high yield, and significant health benefits. As someone managing type 2 diabetes, he was particularly drawn to the crop's potential to help regulate blood sugar levels due to its high inulin content.
During the workshop, he witnessed firsthand how SunfRoots™ grew prolifically with virtually no care, even in the HHRG boxes and fabric pots demonstrated at the MUFN sites. Inspired, he said, "I couldn't believe these plants needed no watering or fertilizer and still grew taller than me! The fact that they can stay in the ground through the winter means I can harvest them as I need them. It’s like having a living pantry."
After tasting roasted SunfRoots™ at the workshop, he was impressed by their sweet, nutty flavor and immediately saw the potential for incorporating them into his diet. Excited about their ease of growth and nutritional benefits, he decided to partner with the Ma'at Urban Farm Network in 2025 to grow SunfRoots™ in his backyard. Using 20-gallon fabric pots provided by the MUFN program, he plans to cultivate several plants in his small urban yard, turning it into a micro-farm for his household and community.
This individual highlighted how accessible regenerative farming practices are for urban residents with limited land. He shared, "For someone like me, who lives in the city with just a small yard, this crop is perfect. It’s easy to grow, it saves space, and it can bring in extra income. I want to share this with my neighbors and show them how we can all grow something valuable."
His story exemplifies the value of the project and its transformative potential. Through his partnership with MUFN, he will not only produce a nutritious and culturally significant crop for his family but also contribute to the decentralized, community-based food production model that MUFN is championing. This success story underscores the potential of SunfRoots™ as an empowering crop for urban farmers, particularly within the ADOS community.
We recommend further study on the biofuel, nutritional, and medicinal potential of SunfRoots™ to maximize their role in regenerative farming systems. This includes detailed analysis of their utility as a staple crop for food security, bioenergy production, and health benefits, especially for conditions prevalent in underserved communities. Additionally, scaling the decentralized Ma’at Urban Farm Network (MUFN) model could provide significant insights into strengthening food systems, empowering ADOS communities economically, and promoting sustainable living. Engaging younger farmers and exploring innovative uses like animal feed, packaging, and circular farming applications would enhance the impact of this transformative crop. The SARE program has been invaluable in supporting our mission, and we look forward to expanding our work to inspire similar initiatives nationwide.