Yukon's Green Revolution: Kwanlin Dün First Nation Unearths a Bountiful Future at New Farm

A groundbreaking achievement is unfolding in the heart of the Yukon, where the Kwanlin Dün First Nation (KDFN) is celebrating an extraordinary milestone: the completion of its first hugely successful harvest at 'The Farm at McIntyre.' This vibrant two-acre farm, nestled just outside Whitehorse, has become a beacon of hope and self-sufficiency, yielding an astonishing bounty that promises to transform community well-being.

From robust potatoes and crisp cabbages to sweet carrots, earthy beets, and vibrant leafy greens like kale and spinach, the farm has produced an impressive total of over 12,000 pounds of fresh, nourishing vegetables.

This vital harvest isn't just about quantity; it's about connection. Every single pound has been thoughtfully distributed to KDFN citizens, cherished elders, vital community programs, local daycares, and even the Whitehorse Food Bank, directly addressing the critical need for accessible, healthy food in the North.

Chief Doris Bill eloquently captures the spirit, stating, “Food security is huge. This is making sure that we do have some of our own food that we can give to our elders and to our citizens and to our daycares.”

The journey to this verdant success began with a deep-seated vision for food sovereignty and economic empowerment.

A feasibility study in 2017 laid the groundwork, leading to the designation of the farm's land in 2022. The inaugural planting season kicked off with a greenhouse in 2023, and by 2024, the main farm was flourishing. This ambitious project represents a harmonious blend of traditional Indigenous knowledge and modern agricultural techniques, reflecting a profound respect for the land while embracing innovative growing practices.

The success of 'The Farm at McIntyre' is a testament to powerful collaborations.

Yukon University has been a key partner, providing expertise through its farm manager and dedicated staff, while Raven Recycling contributes essential compost, closing the loop on sustainable practices. The Yukon government has also played a supportive role, recognizing the immense value of this initiative.

Looking ahead, the KDFN has ambitious plans to expand the growing area, construct a vital root cellar for long-term storage, establish permanent farm buildings, and explore avenues for commercial sales. There’s also a strong desire to integrate traditional plants, further enriching the farm’s cultural significance.

This farm is more than a source of sustenance; it's a living classroom, a community hub, and a symbol of resilience.

It offers valuable employment and training opportunities, fostering a new generation of agriculturalists. As KDFN citizen Leslie Johnson notes, it instills "a sense of pride" to witness this local abundance. The Farm at McIntyre stands as a vibrant example of how a community can take charge of its food future, nurturing both the land and its people with every successful harvest.

It’s a powerful step towards a more secure, healthy, and culturally connected future for the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the wider Yukon community.