Seeking 1/4 to 1/2 acre of land for Garlic

Land Seeker Description

My Name is Dee Thompson and I have been farming vegetables for the past seven years. I am seeking 1/4-1/2 acre of land to grow garlic for my business which focuses on growing seed garlic, fresh garlic, and storage garlic. The ideal land will be within one hour of Portland or even better within the Portland metro area. I am looking for land that has access to well water or private water. If your land access opportunity only has city water I still may be interested and would potentially dry farm the land.

What features of the property are essential?

Ideally water rights or private water (non-city). Irrigation infrastructure (drip). A wash n pack area. Storage space to cure and process garlic after harvest. Refrigeration onsite.

Describe your farming experience

I have been growing mixed vegetables and teaching others how to farm for the past seven years. I started as a WOOFER and then completed the Zenger Farm Apprenticeship. Follow that I managed Boise Urban Garden School for three years and then returned to Portland to Manager The Sideyard Farm and Kitchen. Since 2022 I've had the privilege of working as the Farm Program Manager for Oregon Food Bank where I support BIPOC beginning farmers in a farm business incubator program.

Are you currently farming?

What are your short term goals for the land

I would like to get access to land to start growing more volume of seed garlic as soon as possible. Over the course of the following years, I aim to grow enough garlic to have garlic seed for myself, supply seed garlic and little to no cost to small-scale farmers, and sell seed, fresh, and storage garlic wholesale to individual customers and restaurants.

What are your long term goals

Create a business that sustains itself and supports other small farmers.

Describe your housing needs

No needs at this time.

What will you do as a farmer to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone on your farm and in your community?

I am deeply committed to the liberation of all people. I would ensure that my farm would be a welcoming and safe space for anyone who would like to visit. In particular, I have extensive experience working with people who have lived experience of systemic oppression. I hold a mix of privileged and historically oppressed identities and strive to do my best to use my power and privilege to act in solidarity with all people striving to end the oppressive systems of colonialism, white supremacy, and capitalism.