By Micha Ide of Bright Ide Acres When my husband and I first dipped our toes into farming back in 2013, we started out by growing organic produce alongside raising a small amount of animals for meat. It became clear within a couple years that we were much better suited for animal husbandry, and...
Meat Processing Disruption Puts Livestock Farmers in Western WA at Risk
It’s no secret that farming, especially on small and medium scales, is a labor of love. Long hours, slim profit margins, and climate change all impact the ability of a small farm to grow and sell food in a way that is environmentally, financially, and personally sustainable. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic “disrupted food...
As the season of epic road trips, adventures, and staycations kicks off, we’re highlighting farm stores around the state. Farm stores are a unique institution in Washington State, serving as a place to pick up fresh produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, local beers and wine, as well as being community hubs. You’ll likely see flyers...
by Micha Ide of Bright Ide Acres Farming, especially on a small scale, has always felt to me like a financially precarious vocation. Most folks get into farming for the love of the work and a desire to feed their communities. Earning potential is rarely on the short list of reasons to start a farm...
The pandemic has created a bit of a boom in interest in local food. Has your farm experienced increased demand? And what do you anticipate for 2021?
Gillian: Absolutely. I, and a number of other CSA farmers I know, sold out within a few weeks of the stay-at-home orders being issued last spring. Most of...
The farms being photographed throughout this project encompass the diversity of products and farmer profiles that are representative of Pierce County agriculture. With subjects ranging from berries and mixed produce to naturally dyed wool and humanely raised meat, this project will highlight the broad array of products and services available to Pierce County consumers.
This is an interesting time to be a farmer. Some farmers experienced a crisis this spring as regular sales channels (like restaurants, schools, and Seattle farmers markets) were shut down.