Reimagine Your Lawn — Grow Food, Support Pollinators, Build Community
The More Food Less Lawn (MFLL) initiative is a core project created by Gemmo Forest. We are on a mission to shift the American dream from manicured, resource-intensive lawns to thriving, food-producing gardens. By repurposing even a small portion of our lawns, we can create sustainable urban ecosystems that support both people and pollinators.
Why More Food, Less Lawn?
- Healthier Communities: Fresh, homegrown food improves access to healthy, local produce.
- Support for Pollinators: Diverse, polyculture gardens provide essential habitats for bees, butterflies, and other vital pollinators.
- Sustainability: Reducing traditional lawn maintenance lowers water use and pollution from gas-powered lawn equipment.
- Connection to the Land: Connecting with the earth’s rhythm fosters a deeper relationship with nature and encourages mindful land stewardship.
How It Works
Through the More Food Less Lawn program, we aim to empower 200 Keene residents to convert portions of their lawns into permaculture guilds, collectively transforming at least one acre of land into thriving gardens. In addition to the land we’re cultivating on site at the Gemmo Forest, the initiative will expand sustainable land management across five total acres.
Through public outreach, hands-on learning, and accessible resources, we’re making it easier than ever to grow food at home. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, MFLL provides the tools, knowledge, and community support to help you succeed.
Not in Keene?
While we’re focusing on building this initiative with a grassroots effort in our own backyard, the beauty of this project is that the learnings can be implemented wherever you are!
Get Involved
Join the Movement
Sign up for updates and be the first to hear about volunteer opportunities, workshops, and events.
Support the Cause
From wherever you call home, show your support for the Gemmo Forest by proudly displaying a garden flag or yard sign!
Transform Your Lawn
Whether you want to start small or go all in, we provide step-by-step guidance to help you replace grass with your very own permaculture guild.
See it for yourself!
Want to see it all in action? Join us on the land for our first annual Guild Fest on May 31st.
Join Us in Cultivating Change!
Now is the time to transform our relationship with the land. Whether you’re growing food for your family, creating pollinator-friendly habitats, or simply reducing your reliance on ecologically costly lawns.
Every small step makes a difference.
Show your support from wherever you call home.
The flag needs a stand so you can showcase it in your garden. If you need one, we’ve had good luck with this option available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3FprdcM. If you prefer to shop locally, you can also find options at your local home improvement store.
Want to learn more?
Join Lauren Hubele, Gemmo Forest Director, and Tanya Renner, Homeopath, Health Coach and Gemmo Forest Volunteer, for a 3-part permaculture series — Growing Together.