Peter Burns, Director of Growing Together

Peter grew up in Natchez, MS. Trading the lowlands for the Blue Ridge he graduated from Appalachian State University where he studied anthropology, sustainable development, and renewable energy. This study developed a keen interest in the relationship between food production and environmental justice, recognizing that agriculture is the nexus between ecology, community, culture, and economic injustice. Following his passion for food and community he moved to Nashville in 2011 to live and work in the agricultural neighborhood Bells Bend. He spent the next 10 years managing small scale sustainable farms in the neighborhood. Peter then joined the sustainable landscaping cooperative Nashville Foodscapes as a worker-owner, eventually being elected to represent his fellow workers interest on the governing board of the cooperative. Inspired by the work of The Nashville Food Project and the mission of the Growing Together Program, he joined the organization and has served as the program director since March of 2023. When not at work Peter enjoys kayaking, concerts, NSC games, as well as spending time with his loved ones and dog Jasper.