BeECO (Bethlehem Environmental Commons) is a nonprofit organization focused on supporting local conservation and agricultural initiatives. We promote sustainable farming, land stewardship, and equitable access to farmland while building community engagement around ecological and food system resilience.

A commons is land held in trust for the community and stewarded for public good. It is cared for collectively, accessible to everyone, and designed to support multiple uses from farming and education to trails and quiet reflection.

It is a living place where shared values and shared responsibility come together, creating space for both people and nature to thrive.

The Vision Plan guides BeECO’s work with the Town of Bethlehem, outlining goals for farmland access, sustainable agriculture, and community stewardship. It serves as a roadmap for thoughtful land management and next-generation farming initiatives.

Our primary partner is the Town of Bethlehem, reflecting shared goals from the Vision Plan. BeECO also collaborates with local farmers, educational programs, and community organizations to strengthen environmental and agricultural initiatives.

Be eco develops the infrastructure that makes cooperative farming possible, including access to land, shared infrastructure, and systems that support independent growers.

At the same time, we create welcoming ways for the community to engage with the farm. People are invited to visit, learn, and experience the rhythms of growing food in an approachable and enjoyable way.

These experiences make local agriculture visible and tangible. They help people understand how food is produced, why it matters, and how their support contributes to a stronger and more sustainable system.

By bringing farmers and community into closer connection, Be eco builds both opportunity and long term stewardship.

The Community Experience

Be eco offers opportunities for the community to take part in the life of the farm in ways that are engaging, social, and meaningful.

From seasonal gatherings to hands on activities, participants can follow the growing process and experience the work that goes into local food production. These moments are designed to be enjoyable and accessible, creating a sense of connection and shared purpose.

At the same time, they foster a deeper understanding of responsibility and how supporting local farmers shapes the future of food, land, and community.

Participation becomes both a positive experience and a meaningful contribution to something larger.

Volunteers can help with land stewardship, field days, and sustainability initiatives.

Activities will be posted on our website throughout the year; you can sign up via our website or contact us for details.

Be eco envisions a future where independent farmers and their communities are closely connected through shared systems of local agriculture.

By supporting growers with infrastructure and inviting the community to engage with the process, we create a model that is both sustainable and participatory.

This approach builds a culture where people not only enjoy local food, but also understand its value and take responsibility for supporting it. The result is a stronger and more connected community where farming supports both livelihood and a shared sense of purpose.

We envision a sustainable, resilient local food system where:

• Farmland is accessible to diverse and next-generation farmers

• Communities are actively engaged in environmental conservation and stewardship

• Sustainable agriculture practices thrive and are shared widely

BeECO is supported through donations, grants, and partnerships. Community support enables us to expand programs, support local farmers, and advance sustainable agricultural practices.