Downeast Restorative Harvest

Downeast Restorative Harvest, launched in 2022, is a community farm initiative led by Healthy Acadia in partnership with the Washington County Jail, Department of Corrections, local organizations, and community members. The farm focuses on providing healthy, locally grown vegetables, fruits, and herbs directly to the county jail’s kitchen, while also supporting food assistance programs throughout the region.

Located in Machias, the community farm engages incarcerated individuals, people in recovery, agricultural educators, and volunteers in all aspects of food production. Participants gain hands-on experience, develop job-ready skills, and benefit from the therapeutic value of working outdoors and connecting with nature. Downeast Restorative Harvest is more than a source of fresh food—it’s a space for growth, healing, and opportunity. It helps foster confidence, responsibility, and a sense of purpose among participants, while preparing them for successful reentry into the workforce and community. By strengthening local food systems and empowering individuals through meaningful work, the farm is cultivating resilience and lasting positive change in Washington County.

Program Objectives

‣ Support the mental, emotional, and physical health of jail residents

‣ Support the attainment of valuable life and employment skills for jail residents

‣ Increase access to healthier foods in the jail and area food pantries

‣ Reduce recidivism among program participants

‣ Promote local agriculture education for jail residents and the broader community

‣ Demonstrate a successful pilot jail garden to be replicated in other counties

Located on a parcel of county-owned land off of Broadway Street in Machias, and with a long term lease for use, the garden and Downeast Restorative Harvest (DERH) program are taking shape. Building good soil and strong infrastructure are top priorities for success.

Downeast Restorative Harvest News and Updates

We’re celebrating our first harvests of the 2025 season and are excited for the bounty to come!
Click here to read recent Downeast Restorative Harvest news and subscribe for future updates!

Updated June 17, 2025.