A nonprofit organization from Puerto Rico has received initial approval for its ambitious sustainable teaching farm project in Newbury, Vermont. The Development Review Board has set several conditions that must be met before construction can begin. This project aims to enhance the community through hands-on learning and workshops focused on food security, climate resilience, and sustainable living practices. Despite some logistical challenges, particularly concerning parking arrangements, the organization remains optimistic about the project's future.

The Approval and Conditions

The nonprofit Plenitud PR has secured conditional approval from Newbury's Development Review Board for the first phase of its sustainable teaching farm. The board has outlined over a dozen requirements that need to be addressed before construction can proceed. These conditions range from minor paperwork discrepancies to more significant concerns raised by residents and board members during a hearing in November. While the nonprofit is required to make design adjustments and conduct extensive research, it views this ruling as a positive step forward.

The conditions imposed by the board include addressing parking issues, ensuring compliance with state-level regulations such as stormwater and wastewater permits, fire safety, and Act 250, which governs large developments in Vermont. Initially, Plenitud planned to allocate six to eight parking spaces, encouraging attendees to park in nearby public lots or carpool. However, the board deemed this plan unfeasible and mandated up to 20 parking spaces to accommodate expected event attendance. Jessica Jones Hughes, Plenitud’s associate director, noted that these changes are manageable given the size of the property and is currently working on identifying suitable parking areas.

Vision and Future Plans

Plenitud PR envisions a regenerative farm on a 101-acre plot off North Road in Newbury. The project spans three phases over 20 years, with the first phase focusing on renovations and initial agricultural projects. Renovations will include the existing house and barn, building cabins, an artist studio, and starting greenhouses and livestock facilities. Future phases aim to further develop the property, including additional housing and ongoing improvements. The nonprofit plans to host events and overnight workshops that teach techniques for enhancing food, water, and housing security.

Jones Hughes emphasized that the farm project aims to enrich the community by sharing sustainable practices through hands-on learning experiences. Despite the numerous conditions, the timeline remains unchanged. The nonprofit still plans to host a pilot event this summer and fully launch in 2026 with the first groups of students. Although there are challenges ahead, Plenitud remains committed to moving forward step by step, confident that the project will complement and support existing initiatives in Newbury. The nonprofit views the board's decision as a constructive guide that clarifies what can and cannot be done as they envision the next phase of development.