Our Team
“The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings” Masanobu Fukuoka
Our team dedicates time and attention to so many small, and very large patterns to ensure healthy people and healthy fruit for our region. The attention we give to each individual community orchard, steward, the Camp Washington Perennial Farm, and the regional as a whole is empowered through grants and individual contributions, without which we could not do this important work.
Chris Smyth
Director
Chris began the Common Orchard Project in 2017 while working at Price Hill Will. Since then he has gone on to start the Southern Ohio Chestnut Company, and dedicates every other moment to healing the Commons between people and plants. He currently lives in Price Hill, Cincinnati.
Mel Melvin
Farm Manager
Mel is a horticulturalist and farmer with a focus on bridging divides between agricultural, conservation and landscaping industries. They have previously established composting, plant nursery and food production operations through several non profit and private sector roles, including the ecological landscaping company they run. Increasing public food access and creating a healthier environment through native plants is their passion and hobby beyond professional work. They spend free time working with local community orgs, botanizing and managing a community garden in their neighborhood.