The Southbank Learning Farm is SEEAG’s new three-acre education and agriculture site in Oxnard where hands-on farming, workforce development, and mentorship opportunities will support justice-involved youth while producing fresh, locally grown food for the community.

The farm is located on County-owned land behind the Ventura County Juvenile Justice Facilities in Oxnard. The site was previously home to the Senior Nutrition Farm and will now be revitalized as an educational and workforce development farm.

On-farm programs will primarily serve youth involved in the Ventura County juvenile justice system through a partnership with the Ventura County Probation Agency. Participants will gain hands-on experience in agriculture, job readiness skills, and mentorship opportunities that support personal growth and future career pathways.

Participants will gain hands-on experience in modern farming practices, including soil health assessment and improvement, crop production, integrated pest management, greenhouse production, irrigation, and harvest and post-harvest handling. Alongside these technical skills, youth will develop important personal skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and leadership. The program is designed to support a successful transition back into the community upon release, helping participants build confidence, practical experience, and pathways for success beyond the justice system.

Development of the farm begins now, following the approval of the lease agreement with the County of Ventura on March 3, 2026. Program development and farm infrastructure will take place in phases as SEEAG prepares the site for youth programming for the 2026-2027 academic year.

In addition to providing education and job training opportunities for youth, the Southbank Learning Farm will produce over 30,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables annually, all of which will be donated to those in need, including youth housed at the Juvenile Justice Facility.

Yes. As the Southbank Learning Farm develops, SEEAG plans to offer consistent volunteer opportunities for community members who want to support the farm and its programs. Volunteers may assist with farm projects, planting and harvest activities, and special events that help bring the farm to life while supporting youth programming.

Community members and organizations can support the farm through financial contributions, program sponsorships, partnerships, and volunteer opportunities that help bring the farm’s programs and educational experiences to life.

SEEAG’s goal is to raise $1,000,000 to support the development and long-term sustainability of the Southbank Learning Farm. These funds will be invested across five key forms of capital needed to establish and operate the farm, including land and infrastructure improvements, program development, staffing, equipment, and financial reserves.

This investment will support the first five years of development and operations, allowing SEEAG to build the farm, launch youth programming, and establish an endowment fund that will provide long-term financial sustainability for the project and its impact in the community.