A Season of Growth at South Side Farms
From the desk of Maurice Theriot, Executive Director – South Side Farms
The break in the weather couldn’t have come at a better time. After weeks of anticipation, the first of three greenhouses now stands proudly on our land, a tangible symbol of South Side Farms’ commitment to urban agriculture. It was a moment of celebration, but also a reminder that there was still much to be done.
A Steady March Forward With greenhouse #1 erected, we turned our attention to the next steps. The pad sites for hoop houses #2 and #3 were carefully laid, ensuring a solid foundation for the structures to come. Next week, construction will begin on hoop house #2, with hoop house #3 following soon after—weather permitting.
In the meantime, our seedlings were already taking root, nurtured in the care of SEMO Nursery, CTC Nursery, and Sanctified Soils in Poplar Bluff.
Their growth represents not only the future of our farm but the future of fresh, local food for our community. The addition of a third AmeriCorps volunteer—a dedicated agriculture graduate from West Africa—added both skill and spirit to our team. Discussions with Lincoln University, a local landscape artist, and the Conservation Department have opened doors for thoughtful planning in our landscaping efforts. By carefully selecting native plants and exploring collaborative installations, we are not just growing food—we are nurturing an ecosystem.
Building the Infrastructure for SuccessThe hum of construction fills the air as electrical contracting moves forward. South Side Farms now has phase-one power, bringing us one step closer to full operational capacity. The walk-in cooler, well house, and additional quad plugs have been installed, and well services should be online soon. Once the gas is plumbed, the greenhouse will have the heat it needs to sustain year-round growth. In the meantime, we are fortunate to have support from CTC, which has allowed us to use space in their greenhouse until ours is fully operational.
Connections & Community Involvement: I had the privilege of participating in a mock interview session with students at CTC. It was an opportunity to engage with the next generation of agriculturalists, strengthening ties with the horticultural department and its administration. The collaborations we are building today will shape the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.
Jake, our farm manager, made an amusing yet profound discovery—the first earthworm seen on the property in over two years. He compared it to a Bigfoot sighting, as no one else was around to witness it, but he provided photographic proof. It’s a small but powerful sign that when we remove harmful chemicals, nature finds a way to restore itself.
Educational Opportunities & Upcoming Events: For the first time under my leadership as Executive Director, South Side Farms will host an on-site workshop in collaboration with Lincoln University’s Integrated Pest Management and Soil Science Department. The workshop will focus on soil health, nutrient management, pest control, and other essential agricultural techniques, equipping participants with the knowledge they need to become better growers.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd Time: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM Registration: Encouraged
Additionally, I am honored to be speaking at the Minority and Limited Resource Producers Conference, hosted by Lincoln University Cooperative Extension in Sikeston. My presentation, “Everyone Can Have a Green Thumb,” will take place on Friday, April 4th.(see flyer below)
Looking to the Future: As we move forward, water lines are being installed and construction is underway on both our wash-pack station and farm stand. Each day brings us closer to realizing the full vision of South Side Farms.
We are grateful for the support of our community and partners as we continue this journey. Together, we are not just growing food—we are growing a movement. “Let’s Grow Something Together.”
