Rhizome Revival teaches homesteading, botanical medicine and other skills to people of all ages and abilities. (Coutesy Rhizome Revival) (Courtesy Rhizome Revival)
Editor's note: Click here to read the story as it appears in Community Impact's August 2026 edition on page 14.
Rhizome Revival Educational Farm is seeking help to raise the roof on a new classroom as the nonprofit looks to expand its offerings and connect more residents with local teachers.
Rhizome Revival Educational Farm owner Leesalyn Koehler is raising funds to build a new classroom as the Bastrop County nonprofit works to expand its educational programs. (Courtesy Rhizome Revival)
The overview
Since spring 2024, owner Leesalyn Koehler said the educational farm has focused on permaculture, homesteading and botanical medicine, with programs designed to help neighbors learn practical skills from one another.
She explained that her goal is to foster community through the exchange of experience and insight.
“Neighbors meeting neighbors while developing new skills together,” she said.
How it works
Classes are open to people of all abilities, ages and experience levels, with donation-based options, work-trade and volunteer opportunities aimed at keeping programs accessible.
Rhizome Revival teams up with guest teachers and presenters from across Central Texas to cover topics such as composting and soil building, backyard poultry care, canning, foraging, fermentation and herbalism.
Deryn Koehler mixes clay at a straw bale building workshop on the farm. (Courtesy Rhizome Revival)
Why it matters
Koehler said the mission is becoming more urgent as the area grows and residents face rising food and health care costs alongside declining soil and water quality.
“Even small-scale, small change can make a big difference when we have the skills and support,” she said.
How to help
Residents can support Rhizome Revival in a variety of ways, including:
Attend or volunteer: Participate in classes, volunteer opportunities or work-trade programs.
Spread the word: Tell friends about the nonprofit or bring someone to a class.
Shop local: Buy from the apothecary and farmhouse at the Smithville Farmers Market on Sundays or at www.Leesalyn.com/shop.
