Great Greens was Lakeside's first organic farm. It has been an inspiration for others and set the standard for organic farming in the region. It has reached its long term goals with extensive community activities and the many accomplishments of the ACÁ Eco Training Center. ACÁ's ambitious goals were underwritten by grants to its non-profit educational arm and donations and support from individuals many of whom volunteered tirelessly at the farm and events. Great Greens, which started as a demonstration garden 15 years ago, has become the premier organic label in the area.

Despite the many accomplishments, with the ending of their major grant support the operation’s resources have been pushed to their limit. The departure of Wendee Hill from the organization almost a year ago impacted administration and the educational mission of ACÁ had been put on hold.

In the past six months, with the help of the Friends of ACÁ, a serious attempt has been made to sustain the farm by planting more and selling more. The Adopt-a-Row project has resulted in a large increase in the number of rows planted and harvested. However, results indicate it is not possible to make the farm a self-sustainable operation with production and sales sufficient to cover its operating expenses.

"This is a great loss for Lakeside," comments Greg Ochs of the Friends of ACÁ. "For farmers in this area, ACÁ has been a source of training and information that enables them to farm without the dangerous chemicals frequently used here. For schoolchildren and their teachers, ACÁ's school programs have been the means for kids to learn how to grow their own vegetables and raise poultry and livestock while being good to the land and their animals. And for organic greens lovers like me, it has meant the freshest and finest of baby lettuce, arugula, cooking greens, green beans and much else."

ACÁ as a registered Mexican charitable organization (AC), and the Great Greens label will be maintained with the hope of resurrection in the future.—Judith Baehr.