Morganton – Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina (FCNC) announced its new community farm incubator program aimed at supporting local farmers during the 2026 growing season. The conservancy invited applications from farmers with a minimum of two years of experience, emphasizing the need for increased access to farmland and resources in the region. An open house event is scheduled for July 24 at Oak Hill Community Park & Forest, where interested farmers can learn more about the program.
Open House to Showcase Opportunities
The open house will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 820 NC 126, Morganton, NC. Attendees will have the chance to meet the FCNC team, explore the available land and equipment, and gain insights into the incubator program’s benefits. Ryan Sparks, Stewardship Director for FCNC, highlighted the program’s significance, stating, “Simply put, fewer farms means fewer healthy food options in our local communities.” He added that the initiative aims to bolster the local agricultural industry by providing farmers with access to productive cropland and essential resources.
For the inaugural season, FCNC plans to select two farmers to participate in the program. These participants will receive hands-on mentorship and training, equipping them with skills to thrive in the agricultural sector. “By providing farmers with access to productive cropland, equipment to increase efficiency and capacity… FCNC and its farm incubator program will help bolster our local agricultural industry,” Sparks noted.
Participants will have access to a half-acre of USDA prime farmland soils, high-tunnels, and necessary equipment for a nominal fee. They are expected to commit at least 24 hours per week to their farming operations, focusing on growing annual and perennial vegetables, herbs, and cut flowers. However, animal husbandry and ornamental nursery plants are not permitted in this phase of the program.
Community Impact and Partnerships
Oak Hill Community Park & Forest spans 652 acres and is located just ten minutes from downtown Morganton. It features multi-use trails and a sensory garden pathway currently under construction. The park also hosts 25 acres of prime farmland leased by Lee’s One Fortune Farm, a well-known Hmong farm operated by Tou and Chue Lee. The Lees specialize in growing a variety of Asian vegetables, fruits, and rice using organic methods.
Tou Lee expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with FCNC, stating, “Our partnership with Foothills Conservancy is a wonderful, symbiotic relationship where we share a common goal of utilizing good growing areas as a means to produce food for the community.” He emphasized his commitment to educating others about sustainable farming practices.
Katelyn Nelsen, Land and Stewardship Manager for FCNC, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We’re extremely fortunate to have partners Tou and Chue Lee of Lee’s One Fortune Farm, who are willing to share their experience and knowledge to support beginning farmers in our region.” This collaboration aims to create a supportive environment for new farmers while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Farmers interested in applying for the incubator program can do so through the FCNC website or by contacting Nelsen directly. Applications are due by September 1st, 2025.
Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina is a nationally accredited regional land trust dedicated to conservation efforts in Western North Carolina. The organization has protected over 71,500 acres across eight counties and focuses on various initiatives including land and water protection, farmland preservation, wildlife habitat improvement, and community education.