Vision
The Uptop Agriculture Corporation is proposed to allow Uptop to participate in UDSA ARS programs. By participating in these programs, Uptop will gain expert advice, planning, and potential funding to further develop Uptop’s conservation and agricultural development efforts.
Background
When Uptop was founded by the original 6 50 years ago, it was with the intent to become a farm, art project, and alternative community. Many were asked to come to Uptop to have a rural experience, help with the farming and fencing of sheep, and enjoy the nature and beauty of West Virginia. This generosity was seized upon by many who were like-minded, wanting experiences that gets them closer to nature, closer to their food, while recognizing that the rural lifestyle can also have many health benefits.
Today, many Uptoppers are now or nearing retirement. Uptop presents an opportunity for many in retirement to have active lifestyles, explore themselves and nature, and even produce some amount of the food we need to sustain ourselves.
Long-Term Vision
Further develop Uptop’s conservation and small-scale food production to allow for all Uptoppers to get closer to nature and their sustenance Uptop. With the help of programs that the USDA provides, we can learn more about best management practices, and build a lifestyle that allows for greater levels of activity, engagement, with the potential to adding healthy and active years to our lives.
Supporting Documents
Please see links below to all documents
Required forms for USDA that Mike has already reviewed and shared with BOS