2023 Impact Letter
Dear FFC Family,
I want to express gratitude on behalf of our board of directors for your invaluable contribution to the Fly Fishing Collaborative. Your dedication has been instrumental in creating sustainable solutions to combat poverty and human trafficking. In 2023, your efforts have made a profound impact, showcasing the power of collaboration.
From financial contributions to lodge and guided fishing trip donations, fly tying, farm volunteer labor, and more, everyone has played a crucial role in supporting our mission. Each piece contributed has been essential. As a collaborative team – a family, we have made what seemed out of reach possible. Thank you for your significant contribution.
Let's reflect on our achievements in 2023:
Continued Growth in Belize: Our Community Farm in Gales Point, established in December 2021, has flourished with a 900ft2 greenhouse and a 4,000-gallon aquaculture system. This initiative has yielded 702 lbs of vegetables and 378 lbs of fish, supporting over 250 community members. We are proud to report increased consistency in harvest yields, allowing us to market produce to the general public and creating more jobs for the Gales Point community.
New Farm in Uganda: Construction for the aquaculture facility at the Rock of Ages Primary School in Mbiko, Uganda, commenced in December 2022 and is set for completion in January 2024. This project, running primarily on solar energy, features a 17,000-gallon aquaculture system that will provide protein-dense fish and vegetables for the 350 students, their families, and the community. The farm is projected to yield over 6,000 lbs of fish annually, enhancing the nutritional value of school lunches and providing food supplementation to needy families.
Partnerships in the Dominican Republic: Our collaboration with TEARS in the Dominican Republic has evolved into a fruitful partnership. FFC's support has led to developing a 27,000-square-foot soil farm, complemented by four 10,000-gallon aquaculture tanks. The produce is distributed throughout the community at reduced pricing, ensuring sustainability for TEARS and removing financial barriers to accessing healthy food and clean water.
Warm Springs Partnership: After years of collaboration, we are excited to announce a partnership with the Warm Springs Reservation. This local partnership will see the initiation of FFC's first U.S. domestic-based aquaponic farm. This project aims to provide nutritious produce, reduce water usage, promote eco-friendly practices, and create employment and educational opportunities in sustainable agriculture.
As we look forward to the exciting developments in 2024, your continued support and enthusiasm remain indispensable. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Stay tuned for more updates in our upcoming newsletters.
Warm regards,
Bucky Buchstaber, Executive Director Fly Fishing Collaborative