Pendergrast Farm, Atlanta’s premier urban conservation community, is pleased to announce the arrival of Vincent McKoy as its full-time farmer. McKoy brings a wealth of experience and passion for sustainable agriculture to the one-acre onsite farm, where residents can enjoy fresh, locally-grown produce and connect with nature.
A graduate of the HABESHA Works Program and with over five years of professional experience, including time at Eco-Paradigm, McKoy is a dedicated advocate for healthy eating and community engagement. He is excited to use his expertise to cultivate a vibrant farm that nourishes both the body and the soul, which he’s been doing with community gardens and local farms for 12 years.
“I’m honored to be a part of Pendergrast Farm,” says McKoy. “This community represents everything I believe in – sustainable living, fresh food and fostering a connection with the land. I can’t wait to share my knowledge with residents and create a space where everyone can learn, grow and enjoy the bounty of nature.”
McKoy’s days are a delicate balance of observation and action. He starts by assessing the garden’s condition and creating a to-do list based on its needs. McKoy believes in working with nature, not against it. He spends countless hours tending to the plants, from preparing beds and planting seeds to carefully monitoring their growth. Witnessing the transformation from a tiny seed to a mature plant is incredibly rewarding for him.
“I began eating a plant-based diet in 2010 for health reasons. The most direct route to being in control of what I was putting in my body was to plant it myself,” continues McKoy. “I know exactly what’s in my food and that it’s completely from the earth, with no chemical fertilizers, no pesticides. Now I can continue that organic farming practice for others while helping them truly understand where their food comes from and how precious even one fruit is.”
McKoy’s plans for the farm include:
- Planting a diverse range of seasonal vegetables, fruits and herbs. Right now, homeowners can look forward to enjoying tomatoes, bell peppers, melons, okra, basil and more. Fall planting will include kale, collards, beets and carrots, ensuring a year-round harvest.
- Developing a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. This program will allow residents and the surrounding community to subscribe to receive a regular box of fresh produce grown on the farm.
- Creating educational opportunities. McKoy will offer workshops and classes for residents to learn about gardening techniques, sustainable agriculture practices and the importance of local food systems.
Homeowners can get involved with the farm by:
- Volunteering their time to help with planting, weeding and harvesting.
- Participating in educational workshops and classes.
- Subscribing to the CSA program once established.
McKoy’s passion for farming extends beyond the fields. A talented musician known as PharmBoi, he enjoys playing keyboards, guitar and vocals with his band, Automagic, when he’s not tending to the farm.
Pendergrast Farm is a unique community that seamlessly blends nature preservation with energy-efficient homes and urban convenience. With Vincent McKoy at the helm of the farm, residents can now enjoy a genuine farm-to-table lifestyle in the heart of Atlanta. For more information, visit PendergrastFarm.com.
