Seeking Purchase or Partnership in Deschutes County

Land Seeker Description

I was raised on dairy and produce farms in Missouri. I have been living in Oregon and working as a chef for the past 13 years. I want to get back into the agricultural side of the food industry and work with local restaurants, which I have strong connections with, in order to have more local produce to offer. I am hoping to start with mushrooms and herbs but I am open to other crops and livestock. I have many years of management experience, a degree in renewable and sustainable energy, which I would love to implement. In addition to that I am taking classes in farm management, sustainable practices and general farm practices.

I am working with a mentor from SCORE, he is helping guide me on my plans. To start I would like to grow mushrooms and herbs, I have seen the growing popularity and need for both in the restaurant industry and I think that is a good place to start. However, I am open to ideas and very flexible if working with a partner.

What features of the property are essential?

on-site sewer

Describe your farming experience

I was raised on farms for 12 years. Mostly dairy and poultry experience, this included care of animals, production and veterinary assistance. I also worked with farm and exotic animals for over a year while working for a traveling petting zoo. This included chickens, cows, goats, dear, turkey, llamas, alpaca, wallaby, donkey and reindeer. That included grooming, birthing assistance, administering shots, tagging, milking, bottle feeding and day to day pen maintenance. I also worked on a hemp farm for a season just a few years back.

Are you currently farming?

What are your short term goals for the land

Short term, Mushrooms and herbs. once that is started I would want to expand with poultry. I would be open to honey/ bees, hemp, or goats.

I would hope to expand after a year or two, providing more produce locally or possibly opening a farm to table experience.

I am still in the planning phase of the process and I am very open to ideas and partnerships.

What are your long term goals

working on a profitable farm, growing the business to the needs of our community.

Describe your housing needs

A home on the land would be amazing.

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

Holding farm to table events where we show the people of the community our product in a fun and farm forward dining experience. Offering farming classes or apprenticeships to any and all people interested in learning.