We are a community of Stewards
We are stewards of ourselves, stewards of each other, and stewards of the land.
Some visit, some explore, some want to stay longer, some call it home.
We contain overlapping communities with a common purpose - protecting our natural space and our farmland forever
while sharing our blessings: forest and meadows; our agricultural commons, and our creativity in the embrace of a peaceful watershed.
How it works.
The Big East Fork Agrihood Association (eligible to folks living within or adjacent to the Big East Fork Valley) agree to support the Agricultural Commons (land, agricultural structures, hiking trails, and other assets are owned or leased by the Agricultural Commons).
The Center for Sustainable Stewardship, 501(c)3, acts as advisor for the the Agricultural Commons
Organic/ Regenerative Farms: (McKinney Farm, Dr. Zo’s Farm, Honey Tree Apiary, Brandt Farm, Downing Farms, CSS Community garden) may use the Farm Store and Farm Stands to sell their produce )
Center for Sustainable Stewardship (The CSS Center Lodge, CSS Hiking Trails, Sustainable U., CSS Farm Store, Local farmer’s foodbank, Community Bicycle Stables and Shop, Community Garden, Outdoor Adventure Center). Sunrise Hikes, Day Hike, Nature Hike, Mindfulness Hike, Fitness Hike, Environmental Stewardship Hike and Creek Walk. Leisurely bicycling. Elder circles.
The Fork Inn (Short and longterm rentals for retreats, family gatherings, small groups, and individuals). Private rooms, suites, and whole houses with outside hot tubs, 7-acre lake, Lakeside Pavillion and Park, creeks, and studios, hiking trails, outdoor and indoor stages, and conference rooms,).
Lake Gratitude - 8 acre natural beaver pond with kayaking/ paddle boating/ and picnic & event shelter
Big East Fork Agricultural Commons (hiking trails, agricultural land and structures and gardens, lake, and meadows)
“We absolutely loved The Fork Inn’s Center Lodge. We rented it over the Thanksgiving holiday and it was perfect for our multi-generational group. It’s much larger and nicer than it looks in the photos. The main living area was huge and was great for relaxing. There’s great outdoor space, we played horseshoes and croquet while the kids played on the swing. There was the ritual of the morning trip to see the horses as well. The surrounding land was beautiful and we enjoyed just sitting on the little pier over the pond with our coffee. We would definitely stay here again!!!!!”
EXPLORE
EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES are offered by Sustainable U. (a divison of the Center for Sustainable Stewardship)
FARM
Come meet and help feed the animals of BIG EAST FORK FARMS. Pick up fresh produce at McKinney’s. Join us for an events, workshops, and live music.
ABOUT THE LAND TRUST
The Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation (“TennGreen”) holds the conservation easement protecting the forest and waters of Big East Fork. TennGreen is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1998 and has a mission to conserve Tennessee’s natural treasures. TennGreen completes this mission through voluntary private conservation easements as well as conserving land for public access.
EVENTS COMING UP
Miles of trails, six-acre lake, Center for Sustainable Stewardship Retreat Center, multiple houses for events and lodging -- all surrounded by pristine nature.