ROCKPORT — Maine Coast Heritage Trust’s Teen Ag Crew will lead free tours of their food bank garden at Erickson Fields Preserve, 164 West Street in Rockport. The tour will be one-hour long and start at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, September 20. 

Attendees will learn about the Teen Agricultural Crew, a social entrepreneurial internship where a crew of teens ages 14-18 raise vegetables naturally for the local food system, including food pantries and public schools. Under the guidance of MCHT staff and with the help of many volunteers, the Teen Ag Crew harvests approximately 20,000 pounds annually. 

Attendees will also learn about the Aldermere & Erickson Campaign to raise $3.8 Million for critical new infrastructure and equipment at Aldermere Farm and Erickson Fields.

“These improvements will enhance our food security efforts and give us more time for programming, gardening, and food distribution,” says Aaron Englander, Interim Farm Preserves Director of Aldermere Farm and Erickson Fields, in a news release. "We are excited and grateful for the continued support that makes Erickson Fields Preserve such an inclusive and welcoming community resource." 

Pre-registration is required and admission is free. Donations are appreciated.

Attendees must wear closed-toe shoes and children must be accompanied by an adult.

More information and registration can be found online (https://www.aldermere.org/programs/aldermere/farm-tour/) and by calling (207) 236-2739. More information about MCHT and the Aldermere & Erickson Campaign is available at mcht.org/moo.