How We Farm

Because of new national standards that require independent certification to use the word "organic", we're not allowed to describe the vegetables we grow as "organic". However, we use only fertilizers and sprays that are approved for use by organic farms. We try not to use any sprays at all if we can help it. We have several ways of getting around spraying. One is  the careful maintenance of plant health. Chances are that if you have healthy plants, then you won't have to spray them. We also pay attention to insect lifecycles and try to plant crops when the insect pressure is the least. Weeds are dealt with through manual and mechanical cultivation.

Management Intensive Grazing is a system in which cattle and other animals are rotated on carefully managed pastures. We feel that animals who are raised in this manner are healthier and happier. Cattle are leaner and higher in CLA and Omega 3's (good fats) and pasture-raised eggs are lower in cholesterol and saturated fats than conventionally-raised eggs. We think that makes grass-fed beef and eggs a good choice for your family. Eventually, we would like the majority of our animals to be raised primarily on grass.

Books That Inspire Us:

Chicken Tractor
by Andy Lee

Click, Clack, Moo, Cows That Type
by Doreen Cronin

From Asparagus to Zucchini: A Guide to Cooking with Farm-Fresh Seasonal Produce
by M.A.C.S.A.C.

Keeping Food Fresh
by The Farmers of Terre Vivante

Nourishing Traditions
by Sally Fallon & Mary Enig

The Contrary Farmer
by Gene Logsdon

The Grassfed Gourmet
by Shannon Hayes

The New Best Recipe
by The editors of Cook's Illustrated

The New Organic Grower
by Eliot Coleman

The Whole Foods Companion
by Dianne Onstad

Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone
by Deborah Madison

Why Grassfed is Best
by Jo Robinson

You Can Farm
by Joel Salatin