New England Small Farm Institute

The New England Small Farm Institute is fundraising for the Horse Barn located at Lampson Brook Farm on Jackson Street in Belchertown. Built in 1893, this post and beam barn has had minor repairs over the years, but is now in need of more serious repair. A structural engineer recommended replacing support beams and rotted boards and installing lateral cable lines. The estimated cost is around $45,000. This is Phase I of repairs; a new roof is also in the early planning stages. Please consider helping to preserve this historic barn for our Community.

Nestled near the center of Belchertown, Lampson Brook Farm has been a vital part of the rural agricultural character of the community for more than 100 years. The farm landscape and historic buildings are among the most photographed places in Belchertown, and many members of the community feel a deep connection to the acres of fields and forest. Purchased from an early Belchertown farming family, the farm was operated by the Belchertown State School from 1922-1972. Since 1987, it has been stewarded by the New England Small Farm Institute.

New England Small Farm Institute (NESFI) is a land-based, non-profit organization. It was founded in 1978 by a local citizens’ action group—Women in Agriculture, Food Policy and Land Use Reform—to encourage more sustainable regional agriculture. Our mission is to promote small farm development by providing information and training for aspiring, beginning and transitioning farmers. We maintain an extensive resource collection; produce publications; develop and offer innovative, farmer-guided programs, (often in the barn we are trying to repair); and advocate for policies that encourage sustainable small-scale agriculture.

Please consider donating to help keep this barn in working order. It will be used by future farmers, and as a space for community programming and events. Thank you.