
 The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast
 The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast 1KHO 539: We Need So Many More Farmers | Sean Pessara, Mindful Farmer Arkansas
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 Aug 1, 2025  Sean Pessara of Mindful Farmer Arkansas, a champion of sustainable agriculture, shares insights on transforming backyard gardens into productive spaces. He emphasizes the urgent need for more farmers embracing regenerative practices. Listeners learn about innovative techniques like high tunnels to extend growing seasons and practical tools for efficient gardening. Sean also discusses the joy of engaging families in gardening, fostering a connection with nature, and inspiring the next generation to cultivate their own food. 
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Sean's Journey to Farming
- Sean Pessara transitioned from environmental science to sustainable farming inspired by his desire to steward life better.
- He founded Mindful Farmer to grow backyard gardeners into the next generation of organic farmers.
High Tunnels Extend Grow Seasons
- Use high tunnels to extend growing seasons by creating passive solar heat environments.
- Overwinter crops like carrots and cabbages in tunnels for fresh harvests year-round.
Get High Tunnel Grants
- Apply for high tunnel cost share grants via the NRCS EQIP program to get partial or full financial support.
- Use the tunnel to significantly boost production, enabling faster scaling for new farmers.




