🌱 Tahch’i Farms: Cultivating Community and Culture in Avoyelles!

Tribal initiative blends agriculture, culture and community on Marksville reservation
A growing agricultural effort on the Tunica-Biloxi reservation is taking root in Avoyelles Parish, combining organic farming, education and cultural preservation into one community-focused project.

Known as Tahch’i Farms, the operation has been developed over the past several years under the leadership of agricultural specialist Louis Medina, who relocated to Louisiana in 2023 after decades of farming experience in the Midwest. His work has helped establish what is currently the only certified organic farm in Avoyelles Parish.

The farm has already produced a variety of crops, including: - Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Watermelon

While a developing strawberry patch is expected to expand opportunities for community involvement through seasonal picking.

Organizers say one of the farm’s key priorities is ensuring fresh food reaches tribal elders first, before being shared more broadly throughout the community. The effort reflects a deeper mission centered on health, sustainability and care for future generations.

In addition to food production, Tahch’i Farms is also serving as a learning space. Weekly classes introduce younger participants to agricultural practices, helping pass down both practical skills and a broader understanding of sustainable farming methods.

The project extends beyond traditional crops. Cane is being cultivated for basket weaving, while longleaf pine trees have been planted as part of long-term environmental and cultural initiatives tied to the region’s history.

Tribal leaders have emphasized that the farm represents more than agriculture. It is part of a broader push toward self-sufficiency, economic development and cultural preservation within the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe.

Future plans include: - Expanding growing operations
- Adding greenhouse space to extend the growing season
- Eventually creating facilities for processing and distributing food.

There are also discussions about opening the farm more regularly to the public through markets and community events. Local leaders say the effort reflects a renewed connection to the land and a commitment to building something that will benefit future generations.

Sammy Velasquez brandishing turnips at Tahch'i Farms, the only certified organic farm in Avoyelles Parish. (Courtesy of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana)