Red Fern Farm: A Small-Scale Farming Journey in Floyd, Virginia
Small-scale farming—defined as cultivating crops for market on one acre or less—is both the most challenging and rewarding endeavor I’ve ever undertaken. Alongside my wife Vanessa and our two daughters, I own and operate Red Fern Farm, a ½-acre farm nestled in the picturesque countryside of Floyd, Virginia. Of our 3-acre property, only ½ acre is dedicated to cultivated production, making our approach both intentional and unique.
Farming with Purpose and Sustainability
At Red Fern Farm, we’ve designed our operation to be intentionally small and efficient, relying solely on hand tools. This scale allows us to embrace sustainability while fostering a space that is as calming and inviting for wildlife as it is for our family.
We employ beyond organic practices, using only compost, biostimulants, and inoculants created on-site. Occasionally, we use organic inputs like alfalfa meal to nourish the soil biome. Pest control comes naturally, thanks to bluebirds and swallows that nest in the hand-painted cedar birdhouses crafted by our daughters, as well as the native woodland and riparian buffers we preserve.
Our philosophy treats the farm as a single, interconnected organism—from the creek to the woodlands, from the crops to the insects. Every element plays a vital role in maintaining balance and sustainability.
A Day in the Life at Red Fern Farm
Mornings on the farm are my favorite. There’s something profoundly grounding about walking through the dew-covered fields with a cup of coffee as the sun rises. It’s a moment of peace before the hustle of the day begins.
Harvesting flowers alongside my wife while our daughters splash in the creek or swing on their tire brings joy and a sense of togetherness. Living and working on a small farm allows us to fully embrace the present and create lasting memories as a family.
Connecting with Our Community
At Red Fern Farm, we sell fresh-cut flowers and vegetables directly to our customers. While farmers' market days can be long, the feedback we receive from our community makes it all worthwhile. Hearing customers rave about the longevity, taste, and beauty of our products reinvigorates our passion for what we do.
In a world where much of our food and flowers are shipped from across the country—or even overseas—our goal is to provide a healthier, more sustainable alternative. Many store-bought fruits are picked unripe, greens are harvested weeks before they hit the shelves, and flowers are treated with harmful chemicals. Small-scale organic farms like ours aim to shift that paradigm by offering fresh, nutrient-dense products that last longer and are better for the planet.
The Value of Local, Sustainable Choices
Buying local isn’t just about supporting small farms; it’s about making smarter, more sustainable choices for your family and the environment. For example:
- Produce That Lasts Longer: The lettuce you buy from Red Fern Farm can stay fresh for 2-3 weeks, compared to the quick spoilage of store-bought greens.
- Environmental Impact: By purchasing local produce and flowers, you reduce food miles, emissions, and the use of harmful chemicals.
- Quality and Longevity: Just as investing in long-lasting, well-made Mountain Khakis gear saves you money over time, buying high-quality, locally-grown food provides better value and less waste.
When you support small-scale farms, you’re not just buying food; you’re investing in your community, reducing environmental waste, and advocating for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Small Farms, Big Impact
I truly believe that small-scale farms have the power to change the world, just as Red Fern Farm has transformed my family’s life. The connection to the land, the satisfaction of growing sustainably, and the relationships we’ve built with our community make this journey incredibly fulfilling.
If you’d like to follow along with our farming journey, we share educational content and snapshots of farm life on Instagram at @redfernfarmva. You can also learn more about sustainable farming practices and the importance of buying local by visiting our website at Red Fern Farm.
Join Us in the Movement
By supporting small farms like Red Fern, you’re choosing to make a difference—not just for your family, but for the planet. Together, we can create a future where sustainable, local farming thrives.