Farm Schedule – Additional Goals

Additional Goals of the Farm Co-op

Depending on the situation some of these options may become available depending on the need of the Farm. These options all have a strong value in farming.

Duck integrated into the produce farms provide a strong insect control presence without harming plants depending on the stage of the plants.
Quail provides a steady source of manure.
Egg Layers provide a value of both eggs and manure for our initial stage of produce. Egg layers will be rotated on field prior to produce.
Turkey when integrated into a produce field provide great insect control.
Worm Cultivation provide Worm Casting and a source of worms for our fields.

Our Introduction

Pond & Vineyard Duck

Another aim of our initiative is to introduce Indian Runner and Peking ducks to the vineyards, in collaboration with our aquaculture pond fish emulsion program. These ducks will serve as an excellent source of meat and eggs for the co-op. We plan to establish a breeding flock at the pond and a larger group of ducks dedicated to sustainable insect control. In conjunction with fish and, eventually, goats, the fertilizer produced by these animals will contribute to the estimated 10-60 pounds per acre of fertilizer required for the vineyard. This program is set to become an essential asset for sustainability for all involved.

Our Introduction

Egg Layers - Chicken Flocks

Our objective is to create a flock of over 1000 mixed heritage breeds organically fed chickens for egg production, which will lead to self-sufficiency in egg supply. The slim profit margins in egg production have delayed this project. Additionally, the high cost of the necessary equipment means we might establish a fund for investment in this venture.

The importance of eggs was highlighted during the COVID pandemic when egg availability was impacted. This initiative is crucial not only for our self-sufficiency but also to ensure egg supply continuity in case of viral outbreaks in densely populated poultry farms.

Our Introduction

Free Range Heritage & Production Turkeys

Our goal is to establish a flock of 300+ American Heritage Turkeys for meat & charcutier and order production breeds for a constant supply of turkey meat.

Everyone loves turkey maybe once or twice a year. Other than that, we will make deli meat and products from our heritage breads.

Our Introduction

Worm Cultivation

Worm farming is a simple and economical practice. We plan to use every available covered space between our container growing systems for worm beds. Worm castings are beneficial for soil aeration, water retention, enhanced yields, and better soil health. We intend to distribute worms throughout our farms.

Additionally, cultivating our own red wigglers and nightcrawlers presents another cost-effective method to boost sales and enhance the land.

Our Introduction

Produce and Fruit Processing

As our commercial garden produce service expands, we will initiate a service for freezing and freeze-drying products for our partners. This strategy is aimed at mitigating the costs of winter produce and maintaining the quality of the products we offer to our partners and members.

Our Introduction

Quail and Pheasant Production

as we grow, we will apply for a domestic game bird breeders license. We will begin raising Jumbo Coturnix Qual and Ring Neck Pheasant for meat and egg production. One of the main reasons is their feed to weight ratios is about the highest for any animal. We will also be collecting their manure and turning it into a high end organically processed manure.