Red Earth Farms Is Proof That Intentional Communities Can Succeed

Read the full article “Red Earth Farms Is Proof That Intentional Communities Can Succeed” by Damon Orion

🔭   This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.

While many cooperative living communities fail within the first few years, Red Earth Farms in northeast Missouri has been successful since 2005. This community thrives because of several key factors.

First, Red Earth Farms offers personal space to its members. Unlike some communities where everyone is involved in each other’s daily lives, members here can choose how much they interact. This flexibility helps avoid conflicts and supports independence. The community’s natural setting, with six ponds and a creek, adds to the sense of personal space. There is no common house or shared property, which helps residents feel autonomous.

Another important factor is flexibility. For instance, the community values ecological practices, but members can choose how to apply them. Some may use tractors, while others prefer not to. This flexibility also applies to decisions about keeping animals, growing crops, and sharing resources like tools and vehicles. Cooperation is encouraged but not forced, promoting a sense of freedom and mutual respect.

Decision-making at Red Earth Farms is done by consensus, ensuring all voices are heard. If conflicts arise, they are resolved through mediation within the community or with help from nearby intentional communities. This approach helps maintain harmony.

Proximity to other communities, like Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage and Sandhill Farm, fosters cooperation and resource-sharing. Bartering and gift economies are common, allowing members to trade goods and services, which strengthens community bonds.

Financially, Red Earth Farms uses a community land trust model to keep costs low. This model makes land accessible to people with fewer resources. Residents pay for a 99-year lease that imparts rights similar to ownership and ensures long-term stability.

Overall, Red Earth Farms’ combination of personal space, flexible values, cooperative decision-making, and financial accessibility has created a successful and sustainable intentional community.