Sakari Farms was highlighted on April 15 for its efforts in promoting Native agricultural traditions and sustainable farming practices. The farm, operated by Spring and Sam Schreiner in Tumalo, serves as a resource hub for tribal communities while emphasizing environmental stewardship.
The recognition of Sakari Farms underscores the importance of honoring Indigenous agricultural knowledge and building connections among tribal farmers. Spring Schreiner, an enrolled member of the Chugach Alaska Native Corporation and Valdez Native Tribes, said her background in natural resource management helps guide the farm’s mission to respect cultural traditions.
Spring actively engages with other tribal farmers through conferences and seed sharing networks. She ensures that culturally significant seeds are grown only with permission from their communities. The farm has also established initiatives such as a tribal seed bank and Tribal Boxes to provide access to culturally relevant foods, as well as hosting workshops on seed saving, Traditional Ecological Knowledge programs, and community events like the Tribal Long Table.
The physical layout of Sakari Farms reflects careful planning: greenhouses extend the growing season, a glasshouse nurtures plant starts, dedicated kitchen facilities process harvests into finished products, and a drying room preserves herbs. Natural growing methods are central to their approach—cover crops replenish soil health; plants like mullein are used for tea; bachelor buttons appear in salads; tribal tobacco is grown for pest management.
Sam Schreiner said that water availability remains a challenge due to low snowpack but improvements by local irrigation authorities offer hope. Economic pressures have shifted their focus toward specialty products such as award-winning hot sauces made from unique peppers grown on-site. Twenty-five percent of produce supports Oregon Tribes directly while collaborations with local businesses expand product reach across Central Oregon.
Reflecting on the recognition received from The Source Weekly, Spring Schreiner said: “An Earth Hero utilizes our culture and lived experience. This means being respectful of the living systems of the land which we farm and including the native plant and wildlife habitat and their needs into our growing operation. We implement conservation practices that support the fragile environment the High Desert has to offer.”
Looking ahead, Sam and Spring plan to continue experimenting with new flavors while prioritizing care for both land and community needs. As they put it: “First we take care of the land, and then it takes care of us.”
