![](https://plantingseedsblog.cdfa.ca.gov/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Kimball-2.jpg)
Mary Kimball, executive director of the Center for Land Based Learning, speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony.
By CDFA Secretary Karen Ross
What a fabulous and inspiring event in Woodland recently to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new home for the Center for Land Based Learning! Hoorah to founders Craig and Julie McNamara for the vision to create a place with programs to introduce young people to agriculture and stewardship of our natural resources. Twenty-five year’s later the Center is leading the way with cutting-edge programs for new beginning farmers and ag apprenticeship programs.
The Clark family’s no-cost long-term lease on a beautiful site that includes 30 acres of farm land, and the generous lead-gift of $1.5 million from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation illustrate the faith and optimism in the Center’s ability to touch lives and make communities stronger for the good of all.
My heart is full of gratitude for this organization and its fabulous people.