Radical Root Farm

Alison and Alex embarked on their farming journey with a mission to transform the food system and positively impact their community. After extensive training in permaculture and organic farming through apprenticeships in Texas, Oregon, and Wisconsin, they founded their own CSA and market business in 2008. Initially starting with a small plot of land at Prairie Crossing's Farm Incubator Program, they moved to a historic farm in Libertyville, IL in 2014. Over the years, they have grown their operation to include a successful CSA, wholesale accounts, farm dinners, and contributions to a local food pantry.

The farm employs a variety of ecological and regenerative agriculture techniques. They prioritize soil fertility through the use of cover crops, low or no-till methods, compost, and mineralization. Animal rotation and the integration of a food forest further enhance the farm's biodiversity. The farm minimizes fossil fuel use and soil disturbance by relying heavily on hand labor and organic inputs. They also focus on creating pollinator habitats and protecting natural areas, striving to work in harmony with the ecosystem.

The farm offers tours, talks, and workshops to educate the community about healthy living and ecological growing. They also homeschool their two young sons and are dedicated to continually improving soil health and the nutrient density of their vegetables. Despite recent challenges with their lease, they remain committed to finding a permanent location to continue their farming endeavors.