The 2009 Ohio Sustainable Farm Tour Series is set to start June 20th. This yearly opportunity to get a view of some of the best that Ohio Agriculture has to offer is sponsored by Innovative Farmers of Ohio, Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association, Ohio Forage and Grasslands Council, Ohio State University Organic Food and Farming Education and Research Program, O.S.U. Sustainable Agriculture Team, and the USDA SARE Program.
As always this years tour series features a wide range of agricultural operations from an organic vineyard, to organic field crops, to direct marketed hogs and poultry, to sustainable forestry practices. For a complete list of the 2009 tours see the 2009 Ohio Sustainable Farm Tours Brochure.
This years farm tours will feature two Athens County farms. Both stalwarts of the Southeast Ohio Sustainable Agricultural movement.
On Saturday July 18th, Kip and Becky Rondy of Green Edge Organic Gardens near Amesville will host a tour of their 120 acre organic vegetable operation. This is an opportunity to see one of the premier organic farms in our region. Kip and Becky have successfully utilized the natural assets of their property to produce 30 organic specialty crops, including mushrooms. This is a year round business that utilizes five greenhouses, as well as production fields. Green Edge markets its produce through a CSA, natural food stores and restaurants in Athens and Columbus, and at the Athens Farmers Market.
Green Edge tour participants are encouraged to start the day off with a visit to the Athens Farmers Market, known by many as the best farmers in Ohio, and one of the best in the Country. The market runs from 10:00am to 1:00 pm, featuring a wide variety of local food, entertainment, and good old fashioned community interaction. Anyone interested in taking the opportunity to spend the weekend in the area should check out the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, for a list of lodging and area events.
J.B. and Charlene King of Albany will open the doors to King Family Farm on Sunday September 20th. J.B. and Charlene have a life time of farming experience to share. They produce superior quality hogs and poultry on their 200 acre Athens County farm. They market their products throughout Southeastern, and Central Ohio.
The Kings have developed systems for reducing animal stress, and growing and mixing their own feeds, that result in some of the best pork and chicken you will ever taste. King Family Farm products are also available at the Athens Farmers Market.
This years Farm Tour series offers something for everyone interested in farming or consuming quality food, while conserving our environment. Check out the tour opportunities on-line, and contact info@ohiofoodshed.org or any of the sponsoring organizations if you have any questions.
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