Contribution FAQs

Why are you raising money to purchase this farm?

This is where Bekki and her siblings grew up. Nathanael began working here in high school, when he met Bekki, and we've spent the last 30 years building our family, our farm and our work here. We would love to know that this is where we can spend the rest of our lives.

How much are you trying to raise?

$166,000. That represents the 20% down payment needed to purchase the property.

What is the purchase price?

The purchase price is $830,000.

What will the $166,000 be used for?

The funds will provide the down payment necessary to purchase the farm.

How will the remaining purchase price be financed?

We are currently working through the USDA application process to finance the remaining $664,000.

Why raise a community-supported down payment?

Reducing the amount we must borrow makes the farm more financially resilient. Lower debt means more farm income can be reinvested in healthy soil, crops, infrastructure, workers and our community rather than debt service.

What happens if you raise more than $166,000?

Additional funds will support closing costs, debt reduction, farm infrastructure, conservation improvements and other long-term investments in the farm.

What happens if you don't reach $166,000?

Our intention is still to purchase the farm. We don't know whether that will be possible if we fall significantly short, but we will pursue every reasonable option available before giving up.

What happens if the purchase falls through?

If we are ultimately unable to purchase this property, supporters may choose to request a refund, subject to the campaign's refund terms, or authorize their contribution to remain dedicated to another farm acquisition.

Are contributions tax deductible?

No. Contributions to this campaign are not charitable tax-deductible donations.

What's the difference between a donation and a reward?

A donation is direct support for the farm purchase without a financial return or promised product. Reward supporters choose an available farm product, experience or other benefit associated with their contribution.

How is joining the CSA different?

CSA members purchase a share of future farm production. Instead of making a gift, you are committing in advance to receive food produced by the farm during the upcoming season.

When will rewards be delivered?

Unless otherwise specified for a particular reward, campaign rewards will be distributed within 30 days after the campaign concludes.

Who will own the farm?

Upon a successful purchase, Rebekka and Nathanael Siemens will own the land.

Do contributors receive ownership in the farm?

No. Donations, rewards and CSA purchases do not provide equity, interest, appreciation rights or any other ownership interest in the farm or property.

What happens on the farm after you purchase it?

We plan to continue farming while increasing the farm's diversity with additional citrus, nuts, berries, peppers and squash. We also plan to continue selling through farmers markets and our farm stand, holding monthly farm events, and welcoming more people onto the property.

How does the farm serve the broader community?

Our work extends beyond our own production. We have helped establish the Plowshare Alliance to share equipment among small farmers and the Kern County Food Hub to strengthen local farms and food access. The farm hosts farmer trainings with organizations including Lideres Campesinas and the Allensworth Progressive Association. We also donate freshly baked bread to local food banks and plan to open u-pick fruit to the public.

Can I help without making a large contribution?

Absolutely! Share the campaign. Become an ambassador. Join the CSA. Attend an event. Volunteer. Introduce us to someone who might want to help.

A successful campaign will require many people doing many different things.

How will I know what happens after I contribute?

We will provide monthly newsletter updates covering campaign progress, financing, closing, farm development and the use of campaign funds.

Where can I learn more about the farm?

Visit GonzalesSiemens.com to learn more about our family, farm, food and work.