Join us in cultivating a future where farms and schools come together
Our nonprofit farm is more than just a place where crops grow— it’s where young minds blossom and lifelong learning flourishes. Join us in sowing the seeds of curiosity through hands-on, immersive agricultural experiences.
Discover, learn, and grow with us today!
Our Programs
The Dawn Renewal Project
The Dawn Renewal Project is a post-wildfire recovery initiative to restore Dawn Institute’s infrastructure and revitalize its role as a hub for local food production, education, and land stewardship. This project is rebuilding critical facilities lost in the Dixie Fire and reestablishing programs like school field trips, hands-on classes, and community events. Our goal is to reopen in 2026 with a full schedule of educational offerings that support resilience, sustainability, and community healing.
EPIC Regional Food Systems
Dawn Institute is a proud lead in a USDA-funded Regional Food Systems grant led by Lost Sierra Food Project, Local Area Revitalization Project Cooperative (LARP), Modoc Harvest, and Sierra County Schools for Adults. Through this initiative, often referred to as EPIC (Eastside Producers Information Collaborative), we’re working across four counties to strengthen local food systems by identifying needs and opportunities among farmers, ranchers, and food providers. Our role focuses on community outreach and data collection in Plumas County to support a more resilient and connected regional food economy.
VOAD Involvement
Dawn Institute is an active member of Plumas County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster), where we contribute to regional disaster recovery and preparedness efforts. Our key role focuses on developing and supporting an Emergency Food Access Plan to ensure that rural communities have reliable access to food during crises. By working with local partners and agencies, we help strengthen community resilience and build more responsive food systems in times of emergency
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