Shreveport Green and Louisiana Central today announced the official transfer of Louisiana Central’s Farm & Food Division to Shreveport Green, effective July 31. This strategic move deepens a longstanding partnership between the two organizations and enhances the capacity to build cleaner, greener, healthier ecosystems throughout Louisiana.
The Farm & Food Division, recognized nationally for its innovative programming and leadership, will now operate under the umbrella of Shreveport Green. The transition includes all staff and current initiatives, including management of the Alexandria Farmers Market, farmer training programs, and regional food systems development.
“This is an exciting and necessary next chapter for our team and for the continued development of environmental change within the food systems,” said Bahia Nightengale, Executive Director of the Farm & Food Division. “We’re honored to carry forward the work we’ve built with Louisiana Central and grateful to continue growing it with the creative leaders and doers at Shreveport Green. We’re excited about the future of this work in Central Louisiana and beyond.”
The Alexandria Farmers Market will continue to operate on the same schedule at its current location.
“The transition for customers and vendors will be seamless.” Nightengale said.
The transition reflects years of collaboration between the organizations, rooted in shared values and a common mission. It also ensures continuity for the communities served, with all programs continuing uninterrupted under the Shreveport Green umbrella.
Lauren L.J. Jones, Executive Director of Shreveport Green, remarked, “We’re thrilled to officially partner with the Farm & Food team! After years of collaboration through the Louisiana Small-Scale Agriculture Coalition, this transition is a natural next step. It strengthens our shared mission and creates a mutually beneficial relationship that will amplify the impact of the work we’re already doing. This partnership also allows more dollars to go directly into the North and Central Louisiana agriculture community – supporting farmers, green initiatives, and long-term sustainability across the region.”
Shreveport Green, known for creating North Louisiana’s largest urban farm and for co-leading a statewide coalition that has secured more than $13 million in funding for small farms, will now extend its reach into Central Louisiana. As a Keep America Beautiful affiliate, Shreveport Green prioritizes initiatives that make communities cleaner, greener, and healthier places to live.
Jim Clinton, President and CEO of Louisiana Central, said, “It has long been Louisiana Central’s strategy to pilot work that will take root and find a home that enhances the work’s regional impact. The combined impact of Shreveport Green and the Farm & Food team will significantly exceed the already impressive work of either alone.”
About Shreveport Green
Shreveport Green is a nonprofit organization working to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Louisiana through environmental stewardship and community-driven initiatives. From litter reduction and tree planting to habitat restoration and environmental education, the organization leads efforts that strengthen both people and place. As part of its mission, Shreveport Green also operates North Louisiana’s largest urban farm, integrating sustainable agriculture into its broader vision for healthy, resilient communities.
About Louisiana Central
Louisiana Central is a nonprofit organization providing economic development leadership and support for ten parishes in Central Louisiana.