Sam Olvera of Radical Roots Nursery

The 568th recipient is Sam Olvera of Radical Roots Nursery in Winterport, ME. Sam writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “Self-care means that I'm able to meet my needs both physically and emotionally to allow me to continue farming for decades to come without suffering from injuries, pain, and mental burnout. I think facilitating this requires a holistic approach -- protective clothing at work, good supportive shoes, stretching, access to health care, access to therapy, access to a support system of loved ones who can support me through difficult periods, and more. Well-being means that I'm both mentally and physically able to do what I love the most -- grow plants, educate customers, and be a source of good in the community, without the chronic physical and mental exhaustion that many land stewards experience.”

How I might use this $250 self-care award: ”I would use the self-care grant to purchase a sturdy pair of boots that are both protective on the job and have good arch support to help relieve my plantar faciitis as well as a therapeutic deep-tissue massage to help with muscle tension and pain, specifically in my back.” 

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "There are so many stressors I'm facing as a farmer currently -- funding cuts to programs, rising costs of materials, and more. In addition, there are the stressors of being a queer, trans person facing a constant barrage of threats to my existence and safety. Given this environment, the most important self-care needs are the ones that are fully within my control to take action to support my body and my mind. By first taking care of my physical needs, I can feel more equipped to do my best work to resist the many challenges currently present.”

#realfarmercare