The Source Farm Ecovillage

The Source Farm Foundation and Ecovillage is a nonprofit community development institute and ecological village located in Johns Town, St. Thomas, Jamaica. Established in 2005, it was created to support the return of Jamaicans from the diaspora and to serve as a model of ecological stewardship. The Source promotes sustainable living, organic farming, and community empowerment through education, regenerative practices, and holistic lifestyle initiatives. It functions as a multicultural, intergenerational learning village committed to low-carbon, environmentally conscious development.

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The Source Farm Foundation & Ecovillage is a multicultural, intergenerational intentional community located in Johns Town, St. Thomas Parish, Jamaica. Established in 2005, it serves as a model for sustainable living, ecological stewardship, and community empowerment. The ecovillage was founded to support the return of Jamaicans from the diaspora and to create a space that embodies ecological care and holistic living. It integrates organic farming, renewable energy, natural building, and wellness practices to foster a regenerative lifestyle. 

The community operates on a 63-acre property that includes residential spaces, communal areas, educational facilities, and agricultural land. It emphasizes permaculture principles, aiming to create a harmonious relationship between humans and the natural environment. The Source Farm also functions as a community economic development incubator, fostering sustainable enterprises and educational programs.

Initiatives

One One Coco Natural Farmer Training Program

This intensive program offers hands-on training in organic farming and permaculture. Participants engage in farm management, business skills development, and the establishment of individual farm plots. The program aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable agriculture .

Ujima Natural Farmers Market

The Ujima Natural Farmers Market is Jamaica's first organic farmers market, providing a platform for local farmers to sell organic produce directly to consumers. It promotes healthy eating, supports local agriculture, and fosters community engagement.

Jamaica Sustainable Farm Enterprise Program

This initiative focused on building local, ecologically based food systems in Jamaica. It provides training and support for sustainable farming practices, aiming to enhance food security and environmental resilience.

"Green Building" Projects

The Source Farm incorporates natural building techniques, including earthbag and monolithic dome structures, to create sustainable and affordable housing. These methods reduce environmental impact and promote resilience against natural disasters.

Ni Mala Wellness Centre

Ni Mala, meaning "Light of the Soul," is a wellness center that offers holistic health services, including herbal medicine, yoga, and spiritual retreats. It serves as a sanctuary for healing and personal growth .

Key Approaches

• Permaculture Design: Implementing sustainable agricultural systems that mimic natural ecosystems.

• Organic Farming: Cultivating crops without synthetic inputs to maintain soil health and biodiversity.

• Natural Building: Utilizing local and sustainable materials for construction to reduce environmental impact.

• Renewable Energy: Incorporating solar and wind energy systems to achieve energy independence.

• Community Engagement: Facilitating educational programs and markets to strengthen local economies and social ties.