Phoenix Farm, a 63-acre sanctuary nestled just north of Iowa City, Iowa, stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of SILT founders Paul Durrenberger and Suzan Erem. With a commitment to sustainable land stewardship and community enrichment, Phoenix Farm embodies the transformative power of collective action and shared purpose. From its humble beginnings as a young farmer’s opportunity to its evolution into a beacon of hope and renewal, Phoenix Farm continues to inspire and uplift all who tread its fertile soil.

History: 

The story of Phoenix Farm began with a dream – a dream of creating a thriving agricultural community rooted in sustainability and resilience. For Paul Durrenberger and Suzan Erem, the journey began over five years ago when they acquired the land with the intention of offering it to a young farmer at an affordable price. However, fate had other plans, and the couple found themselves in possession of 143 acres instead of the planned 40. Undeterred by this unexpected turn of events, Durrenberger and Erem saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the land and the community.

Through years of research and reflection, Durrenberger and Erem discovered the power of land trusts in preserving and protecting agricultural land for future generations. Inspired by this realization, they, along with 25 other founders, launched SILT – the Sustainable Iowa Land Trust – in early 2015. Phoenix Farm soon became a cornerstone of SILT’s mission, serving as a living testament to the values of sustainability, stewardship, and community.

Despite facing challenges along the way, including conflicts with the original farmer and local officials, Durrenberger and Erem remained steadfast in their commitment to preserving Phoenix Farm for the benefit of all. As the end of the five-year agreement approached, they made the difficult decision to sell 80 acres to pay off debt and donated the remaining land to SILT.

Vision for the Future: 

Today, Phoenix Farm stands as a beacon of hope and renewal, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable and resilient future. Under SILT’s stewardship, the land will continue to be leased to farmers who share Durrenberger and Erem’s vision of sustainable agriculture. Farmers like Santos Lopez, the current caretaker of Phoenix Farm, embody the spirit of stewardship and community that defines the farm’s legacy. From tending to chestnut trees to growing a wide assortment of vegetables and raising chickens and sheep, Lopez is a vital custodian of Phoenix Farm’s rich heritage.

Join the Journey: 

Be a part of Phoenix Farm’s legacy by supporting SILT’s mission to protect and preserve Iowa’s agricultural heritage. Together, we can cultivate a future where farms like Phoenix Farm thrive and flourish, nourishing both the land and the community. Whether you’re a farmer, an environmentalist, or a community advocate, there’s a place for you at Phoenix Farm. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future for all.