Open Farm Day
Maybelline, a beef cow, grazes in a pasture at Apple Creek Farm, Bowdoinham. The farm is one of several open to visitors for Maine’s Open Farm Day.
Thank You, Farmers
Summer in Maine brings vibrant colors, scents, and flavors. As the days lengthen and the sun warms the soil, our state comes alive with the promise of abundance. Behind this bounty stands a group of individuals whose dedication and hard work are essential to our way of life: our farmers.
To all the farmers across Maine, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your tireless efforts to provide healthy, highquality produce, meats, and other agricultural products do not go unnoticed. You rise with the sun daily, tending to your fields, orchards, and livestock with unwavering commitment. Your passion for your work and your land shines through every crop harvested and every animal cared for.
Summer is a bustling and critical period as farmers work to nurture their crops and ensure a successful harvest later in the season. These days involve planting, weeding, irrigation, pest control, harvesting, pruning, and training, as well as constant monitoring and maintenance of the health and growth of crops. Not to mention tasks such as repairing fences, maintaining equipment, and replenishing mulch and compost.
It is not uncommon for farmers to experience sleepless nights in the orchard or the barn, protecting crops and caring for their animals. This dedication and perseverance are a testament to the resilience of Maine agriculture.
This year, as we navigate the challenges posed by heightened concerns regarding Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), our farmers are again rising to the occasion. With increased biosecurity measures, they take every precaution to safeguard their flocks and herds to protect our food supply. Their proactive approach and commitment serve as a shining example of the values that define Maine agriculture.
Climate change also presents significant challenges for our agricultural community. Staff from the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, members of the Legislature, the University of Maine, and many stakeholders are actively participating in the Maine Climate Council’s Natural and Working Lands Work Group, contributing to the update of the state’s climate action plan, which will be released at the end of this year. Our farmers’ firsthand experiences with changing weather patterns and innovative sustainability practices are essential for shaping policies that support a resilient and thriving agricultural sector.
Beyond their role as stewards of the land and providers of nourishment, our farmers are also pillars of their communities. Every season, they make time to care for others in need, whether by supplying fresh produce to food banks, supporting local initiatives, or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need. Their generosity and compassion enrich the fabric of our rural communities and broader society and remind us of the true meaning of community.
As we enjoy the abundance of Maine’s unrivaled agriculture products, let us take a moment to reflect on the tireless work and effort that goes into producing them. Behind every skein of wool, every potato and ear of corn, and every pint of blueberries and bowl of ice cream, is a farmer who has poured their heart and soul into their craft. Their dedication sustains, nourishes, and connects us to the land.
So, to all the farmers of Maine, I say thank you. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence. Thank you for your resilience in the face of adversity. And thank you for feeding our bodies and souls with the fruits of your labor. Your contributions to our state are immeasurable, and we are truly grateful for all you do.
In gratitude to Maine’s farmers and all who support them,
Amanda Beal, Commissioner Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
Q & A with Maine Water Buffalo Co.
You may have known that Maine has cow, goat, and sheep dairies, but did you know that there is a water buffalo dairy farm in Maine? The Maine Water Buffalo Co. in Appleton raises the animals, known throughout the world for their milk and meat. Along with many other Real Maine members, you can find Maine Water Buffalo Co. at a local farmers market this summer (they will be in Belfast) or you can visit them on Open Farm Day on July 28. We talked with owner Jessica Farrar to learn more.
You are unique, as you’re the only working farm of your kind in Maine. What makes water buffalo unique?
So many things! Water buffalo are similar to cattle, but also very, very different. The animals themselves are intelligent and curious; each has their own personality, making them quite a challenge at times but also very rewarding to work with. They get attached to their person or people, and I count it as an honor to be trusted by my herd.
What qualities do water buffalo dairy and meat have? Do many other places in the world use them for cuisine?
Water buffalo meat is very lean and hearthealthy, with higher protein and lower cholesterol than beef. The taste is similar to a high-end beef. Water buffalo milk
composition makes it nutritiously superior milk over many domesticated animals, with a higher protein, higher calcium, and higher butterfat and it is highly digestible for individuals with lactose-intolerance issues. Water buffalo meat and milk are used all over the world. In fact, water buffalo milk makes up around 13 percent of the world's dairy consumption. It is widely used in India and Pakistan, and of course, Italy is famous for using buffalo milk for their buffalo mozzarella.
You offer tours of your farm and tastings. What do you hear your visitors say they have learned?
Most people leave completely amazed at the friendliness of the water buffalo after having their first face-to-face interaction with our herd. The tastings are a great way for visitors to sample several cheeses, yogurt, gelato, and even the smoked meats from the buffalo and decide on their favorites. Visitors are always surprised at the creaminess and delicious flavor of the dairy.
Why are events like Open Farm Day important for your farm to participate in?
On-farm events are a great way to showcase not only our farm's products but also the animals. They are why I farm, so they are the real stars. It also lets folks see firsthand where their food comes from and who the farmers behind the products are.
PHOTO COURTESY: CANDID EXPOSURE
Midcoast Hospitals Offer Maine-Grown Foods
Waldo County General Hospital in Belfast and Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport serve locally grown food to around 500 patients, staff, and families daily.
Sheila Costello, director of nutrition services at both hospitals, regularly sources root crops, salad greens, and other local produce from nearby farms and connects with other potential vendors at the Belfast Farmers Market and through the online directory at Real Maine.
The hospitals offer a vegetarian menu item and feature a local vegetable every day, and the local purveyors are highlighted on their whiteboards. They purchase local jams, honey, mustard, cheese, crackers, salads, salad dressings, and apples to offer in their retail spaces. Both hospitals recently did a taste testing of a plant-based shepherd’s pie made with Maine potatoes for a recipe contest, and
they host a farmers market at each site in the fall with local food, crafts, and health education.
During the growing season, Costello typically emails the farms weekly to learn what is available and to place the hospitals’ orders. She also meets with the farmers at the end of the growing season to learn from the past year and plan for the following year. Purchasing nutritious local food helps MaineHealth, with which Waldo County and Pen Bay are affiliated, meet their sustainability goals and align with the overall mission of the hospitals to help create healthier communities.
To learn more about Maine’s Local Foods Procurement Program and how to increase farm-to-institution sales, contact Brittany Peats, Maine DACF Institutional Market Development Coordinator, at brittany.peats@maine.gov.
Fresh Recipes
Try these tasty recipes from some of the Maine Open Farm Day hosts using local ingredients!
Caramelized Beets and Onions
From Ripley Farm in Dover-Foxcroft (ripleyorganicfarm.com)
This is our absolute favorite way to have beets. Gene says that he doesn’t believe anyone that says they don’t like beets until they’ve tried this recipe.
Ingredients
3-4 medium beets, sliced into thin rounds
2 medium onions, sliced into thin rounds
4 Tbsp cooking oil
salt and pepper
Directions
Heat cooking oil in a heavy bottomed skillet on medium heat. Add sliced beets and onions and saute for 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Turn the heat to medium-low, cover skillet and cook for 30-45 minutes until caramelized, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Season and serve hot. Makes 4 accompaniment servings.
Sausage Egg Cups
From Apple Creek Farm in Bowdoinham (applecreekfarm.me)
One of our favorite breakfasts to make ahead of time are these sausage egg cups. Endlessly customizable, use your frozen grated zucchini from last year’s garden or substitute with seasonal delights such as basil and tomato in summer.
Ingredients
1 lb Apple Creek Farm
Fennel & Sage Beef
Sausage or Rosemary
Mutton Sausage
12 organic eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 cup chopped greens – chard, collards, kale or spinach
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (Balfour Farm (cow’s milk) or Coppertail Farm (goat’s milk))
1/2 cup grated zucchini, optional
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 12 regular sized muffin cups or 16 mini muffin cups with your favorite Apple Creek Farm grass-fed fat (beef or sheep).
In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk until combined. Stir in greens, feta cheese, zucchini & Parmesan cheese.
Divide sausage into 12 or 16 portions (depending on size of muffin cups). Press sausage into a greased muffin cup. Be generous, as the sausage will shrink. Bake 8-10 minutes, remove from oven.
Fill muffin cups 3/4 full with egg mixture on top of sausage. Place back in oven, bake 15 – 20 minutes (regular sized) or 10-12 minutes (mini), until eggs have risen and golden.
Store in fridge up to 5 days. Warm up in the oven or on stove top.
Sizzling Scapes
Garlic scapes add unique flavor to these summer dishes
Garlic scapes are the curly tops of garlic plants and are readily available in the summer. Slightly less pungent than garlic bulbs, they are a great way to add flavor to a variety of different recipes and dishes, especially salads, spreads, or sauces. The following recipes are a few of several you can find on Real Maine member Ripley Farm’s website (ripleyorganicfarm.com).
Garlic Scape Pesto
Ingredients
9-10 garlic scapes
½ cup slivered almonds (or other nuts)
¾ cup olive oil
¼ cup grated parmesan
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Discard the knobby seed pot and tail from the garlic scapes and coarsely chop. Put scapes and almonds into a food processor. Blend until smooth paste. Add olive oil slowly while running the food processor. Then add parmesan, salt and pepper. Blend to incorporate. Serve fresh, or refrigerate or freeze.
Garlic Scape Hummus
Feel free to add or subtract based on your personal taste. Use the finished product as a dip or spread.
Ingredients
4-6 garlic scapes, chopped
1 can of chickpeas, rinsed
2-4 Tbsp lemon juice (or to taste)
Olive oil
1 tsp tahini (or to taste)
Ground cumin to taste
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt
Directions
Combine ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Taste and add more of anything you think you need. Store in the refrigerator and use up within a week.
Exciting a Passion for Cooking Local Real Maine supports the Innovative Local Foods Cooking Challenge Competition
Real Maine was in attendance and one of our own was a judge at the Innovative Local Foods Cooking Challenge Competition held at the University of Maine at Orono.
The event, in its fourth year, is part of the University of Maine’s Professional Development in Agricultural Literacy project, which takes a multi-pronged approach to increasing career and technical education culinary arts instructors and, by extension, their students, understanding, engagement, and passion for the agricultural landscape and food system in Maine.
Ten of Maine’s high school Career Technical Education (CTE) culinary arts programs sent teams of two to compete. The young chefs had a pantry of local ingredients to use (including several Real Maine members’ products) and were given a total of 2 hours and 30 minutes for formulating a concept and recipe(s), 1 hour and 15 minutes for cooking, and a 15-minute service win-
dow. Requirements for their dishes included the inclusion of a cooked protein, a starch, one or more vegetables cooked or raw, and a sauce. Students were judged on professionalism, cooking, and presentation.
The winners were:
First place: Eleanor Nery and Gwen Weaver from Bath Regional Career and Technical Center – local salmon over black barley risotto and carrot purée.
2nd place: Lucy Alexander and Alex Mullins from Tri-County Technical Center in Dexter – rainbow grain bowl.
3rd place: Sadie Lee and Sean Crose from Region 2 School of Applied Technology in Houlton – sausage gravy over biscuits with root vegetable hash and a sunny side up egg.
Sadie Lee and Sean Crose, the team from Region 2 School of Applied Technology in Houlton.
PHOTO COURTESY: UNIVERSITY OF MAINE
Gwen Weaver and Eleanor Nery, the team from Bath Regional Career and Technical Center.
PHOTO COURTESY: UNIVERSITY OF MAINE
Expanding the MSFP
The Maine Senior FarmShare Program continues to grow
With its 23rd season underway, the Maine Senior FarmShare Program (MSFP) is excited to announce a growing partnership with the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets.
This year, some Maine farmers’ markets will allow older adults to sign up for MSFP at the market’s information booth instead of with an individual market vendor. After enrollment, participants will receive $50 in vouchers of $5 and $1 denominations. Each voucher may be spent directly on fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, or honey sold by any vendor in that market.
Eleven farmers’ markets across the state – including Bar Harbor, Dover-Foxcroft, Fairfield, Skowhegan, Portland, and more –are included in this new program model, which is an expansion of a 2023 pilot initiative at three farmers’ markets in the state. To be placed on a list for your preferred market, email SeniorFarmShare.AGR@maine.gov or call (207) 287-3491.
In addition to the new partnerships with Maine farmers’ markets, MSFP will continue as usual at more than 100 farms across all 16 counties, with older adults enrolling at farm stands, farm stores, and individual farmers’ booths at farmers’ markets. Enrollment is rolling through September 30 and is first-come, first-served.
To be eligible to participate, a person must:
• Be a Maine resident
• Be at least 60 years old (or at least 55 years old if Native American)
• Have an income at or below:
• $27,861 per year for a one-person household
• $37,814 per year for a two-person household
Program participants receive a $50 value of fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and honey produced by Maine farmers. Some farms deliver pre-selected shares to older adults, while others operate it more like a $50 farm credit, allowing participants to shop for what they would like.
MSFP is one of a few federal nutrition assistance programs that can be used to purchase local food at Maine farmers’ markets. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants & Children (WIC) also allow customers to buy local food at farmers’ markets. When shopping with SNAP, shoppers can earn Maine Harvest Bucks – dollar-for-dollar bonus vouchers to redeem on more local fruits and vegetables. Check the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets website (www.mffm.org) for an upto-date listing of which markets accept which forms of currency.
The Maine Senior FarmShare Program is housed within the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry (DACF) and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture. Enrollment for the market-wide Maine Senior FarmShare Program will begin on June 1. For more information, visit the Maine Senior FarmShare page on DACF’s website (maine.gov/dacf/ seniorfarmshare), email SeniorFarmShare.AGR@maine.gov, or call (207) 287-3491.
PHOTOS COURTESY: MAINE FEDERATION OF FARMERS’ MARKETS
Ways to Support Maine Farmers Year-Round
Maine is fortunate to have a variety of agriculture. By supporting farms, we help ensure working landscapes thrive, agriculture remains a cornerstone of our state, and quality farm products are accessible and available for generations to come!
Farms across Maine continue to grow high quality food and farm products, and they are available year-round at many places. As you explore Maine farms this summer, and year-round, consider these recommendations – especially if you’re visiting a farm, farm store, or market, or picking your own.
Look for listings of local farms to support. RealMaine.com is a good place to start.
Keep farms healthy — stay home if sick or not feeling well.
Call ahead! Seek current schedules for daily and seasonal updates.
Ask farmers how to enjoy farm products year-round!
Is there pre-ordering or online shopping? Do they offer subscription orders like gift boxes, ‘freezer beef and meat,’ or CSA shares? Can you find their products at supermarkets, farm stands, or stores? Does the farm use social media or newsletters to share updates and product tips?
Follow farm rules. Stay in visitor areas. Keep pets at home.
Looking to explore outdoors on farmland and woodlots?
Ask permission. Things change seasonally to support the farm. A winter ski trail might become a summer hayfield or crops. What looks like an empty dirt road may instead be a path to safely move livestock or farm equipment.
Bring an insulated container. Keep cold foods cold, and hot foods hot for quality.
Carry-in, carry-out trash and recyclables.
Always clean fresh produce before eating and preparing; don’t eat until at home.
Use good hygiene before, during and after visit. Always clean fresh produce before eating and preparing; don’t eat until at home.
Be aware, travel with care. Sharing the road with farm equipment on roadways during planting and harvest seasons is part of supporting local farms. Don’t crowd. Patience is appreciated.
Apples
Asparagus
Apples
Asparagus
Beans (Snap, Wax)
Beets
Beans (Snap, Wax)
Beets
Blackberries
Blackberries
Blueberries, High Bush
Blueberries, High Bush
Blueberries, Wild Broccoli
Blueberries, Wild
Broccoli
Brussels Sprouts
Cabbage
Brussels Sprouts
Cabbage
Cantaloupes
Carrots
Cauliflower
Cantaloupes
Carrots
Cauliflower
Corn (Sweet)
Corn (Sweet)
Cranberries
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Garlic
Grapes
Cranberries
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Garlic
Grapes
Kale/Collards
Leeks
Kale/Collards
Leeks
Lettuce/Spinach/
Mixed Greens
Lettuce/Spinach/ Mixed Greens
Mushrooms (Cultivated)
Onions
Parsnip
Peaches
Peas
Pears
Peppers
Plums
Potatoes
Pumpkins
Radishes
Mushrooms (Cultivated)
Onions
Parsnip
Peaches
Peas
Pears
Peppers
Plums
Potatoes
Pumpkins
Radishes
Raspberries
Raspberries
Squash (Summer)
Squash (Summer)
Squash (Winter)
Squash (Winter)
Strawberries
Strawberries
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Tomatoes
Tomatoes
Turnips
Turnips
Watermelon
Watermelon
Alan Day Community Market
Alan Day Community Garden at 26 Whitman St. in Norway
Fridays 5-8, July-September
Augusta Farmers’ Market at Mill Park
At the former Edwards Mill site, downtown along the Kennebec River
Tuesdays 2-6, May -October
Bangor Farmers’ Market
Abbot Square, across from the Bangor Public Library
Sundays, 11-1:30, Late April - late Nov.
Bangor’s European Market
117 Buck St. at Sunnyside Greenhouse, across from Bangor Auditorium parking lot
Saturdays 8:30-12:30, Year Round
Bar Harbor’s Eden Farmers’ Market
YMCA parking lot, Main St. (Rt. 3)
Sundays 9-12, mid-May through October
Bath Farmers’ Market
Waterfront Park on the Kennebec River, 100 Commercial Street
Saturdays 9-12, May - October
Belfast Farmers’ Market
Waterfall Arts, 256 High Street
Fridays 9-1, April - October
Belgrade Lakes Market
Maine Lakes Resource Center, 137 Main St.
Sundays 8-1, May - mid-September
Bethel Farmers’ Market
On the greenspace next to the Norway Savings Bank, 1 Park Street
Saturdays 9-12:30, late May to mid-October
Blue Hill Farmers’ Market
At the Blue Hill Fairgrounds, Rte. 172
Saturdays 9-11:30, Late May-October
Boothbay Farmers’ Market
On the Town Commons, 1 Common Drive
Thursdays 9-12, May to October
Bowdoinham Farmers’ Market
Mailley Waterfront Park, 6 Main Street
Saturdays 8:30-12, June through October
Brewer Farmers’ Market
Brewer Auditorium parking lot, 318 Wilson Street
Saturdays 8:30-1, May through October
Bridgton Farmers’ Market
In front of the Bridgton Community Center, Depot Street.
Saturdays 8-12, May to Thanksgiving
Brooklin Farmers’ Market
In the parking lot between the church & the library, 4 Bay Rd (Rt. 175)
Thursdays 11-1, Late May to Columbus Day
Brooksville Farmers’ Market
Community Center Parking Lot, Cornfield Hill Rd.
Tuesdays 9:30-12, June-September
Brunswick Farmers’ Market
On the mall downtown, Maine Street
Tuesdays 8-1, May to Thanksgiving
Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust
Farmers’ Market
Crystal Spring Farm, 277 Pleasant Hill Road
Saturdays 8:30-12:30, May through October
Bucksport Bay Farmers’ Market
In the Post Office parking lot, 99 Main Street Thursdays 12-3, mid-May through October
Calais Farmers’ Market
Downtown on the green, Main Street Tuesdays 12-2, mid-June to October
Camden Farmers’ Market
Old Tannery Site, 116 Washington Street (Rt 105) Saturdays 9-12, May through October
Cherry Hill Farmers’ Market 616 Main St., Gorham Wednesdays 2-6, May to October
Cumberland Farmers’ Market (CFMA)
Cumberland Town Hall Complex, 290 Tuttle Road
Saturdays 10-1, mid-May through October
Damariscotta Farmers’ Market
Damariscotta River Association, 109-110 Belvedere Road Fridays 9-12, Mid-May through October
Danforth Farmers’ Market 9 Central Street
Fridays, 9am to 1pm Mid-June to end of September
Dayton Farmers Market 24 Jessica May Rd Sat - 8am to 12pm, Sun - 9am to 1pm Mid-May through October
Dover Cove Farmers’ Market 1033 South Street, Piscataquis County Ice Arena Saturdays 9-1, Mid-May through October
Eastport Farmers’ Market
141 Water Street Saturdays 10-1, late June through October
Ellsworth Farmers’ Market 190 Main Street Saturdays 9:30-12:30, April through October
Fairfield Farmers’ Market Nazarene Church Parking Lot, 81 Main Street Wed 2-6, Sat 9:30-1:30, Mid-May - October
Falmouth Farmers’ Market (CFMA) Next to the ice rink and Walmart, 22 Hat Trick Dr. Wednesdays 10-1, mid-May - October
Farmington Farmers’ Market (Fridays) Between Better Living Center and Narrow Gauge Cinema, Front Street Fridays 10-1, May through October
Farmington Farmers’ Market (Saturdays) The courthouse parking lot, 129 Main Street Saturdays 9-12, May through October
Freedom Farmers’ Market at The Lost Kitchen
22 Mill St. Tuesdays, 11am - 2pm Late June through August
Freeport Farmers’ Market Next to Freeport Town Offices at 22 Main St. Fridays 9-1, early June through mid-October
Gray Village Farmers’ Market
4 Main St, Village Green Sundays 10-1, July-October
Greater Gorham Farmers’ Market
Route 114, 71 South Street
Saturdays 8:30-12:30, May through October
Greenwood Farmers’ Market
Old Greenwood Town Office, 270 Main Street (Route 26), Lock Mills Fridays 4-6, June-November
Hallowell Farmers’ Market
Steven’s Commons, 2 Beech Street Saturdays 9-12, May through October
Hampden Farmers’ Market
St. Matthews Church, 70 Western Ave. Fridays 2-5:30, mid-May to mid-October
Holden Farmers’ Market
Historic Holden Town Hall, 723 Main Road Fridays 2-6:30, June to October
Houlton Community Market Market Square
Saturdays 8:30-12:30, late May through Oct.
Howland Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market Bridge Street
Sundays 10-2, May through early October
Islesboro Farmers’ Market
Islesboro Community Park, 103 Pendleton Weds 10:30-12:30, late-June to early Sept.
Kennebunk Farmers’ Market
Garden Street Lot, 3 Wells Ct.
Saturdays 8-12:30, May to mid-November
Kittery Community Market
In the Post Office parking lot, 10 Shapleigh Rd.
Sundays 10-2, May to October
Lewiston – Kennedy Park Farmers’ Market
Kennedy Park, corner of Pine St. & Bates St. Tuesdays, 2-5
Lewiston Farmers’ Market
2 Oxford Street
Sundays 9:30-1, May to November
Lincoln Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market Town Square on Main Street
Fridays 10-2, late June - mid-October
Lisbon Farmers Market
1 Canal St.
Sundays, 9am to 2pm June to October
Lubec Market
Downtown, 55 Water St.
Saturdays 10-12, May through October
Machias Valley Farmers’ Market
On the dike across from Helen’s Restaurant, 76 U.S. 1
Fridays 9-2, Saturdays 9-1, May through October
Milbridge Farmers’ Market
Camden National Bank parking lot, 29 Main St.
Fridays 9-12, Memorial Day to mid-September
Millinocket Farmers’ Market
50 Penobscot Avenue
Saturdays 9-2, July-October
Moosehead Family Village
Farmers’ Market
215 Pritham Ave, Greenville
East lot of Bartley’s Center Cove Events
Fridays 3-6, July-October
Newport Farmers’ Market
Route 7 lot, next to the Credit Union
Sundays 10-3, May through October
North Haven Farmers’ Market
The Ball Field
Saturdays 9-11:30, May through October
Northeast Harbor Farmers’ Market
On the Green, Harbor Drive
Thursdays 9-12, late June to August
Ocean View Grange Farmers’ Market
Rt. 131 between Tenants Harbor and Port Clyde, 435 Port Clyde Road
Wednesdays 9-1, Late May-Mid-October
Orono Farmers’ Market
University Steam Plant parking lot, College Ave.
Saturdays 8-12, May through Thanksgiving
Otis Farmers’ Market
Next to the Otis General Store
169 Otis Rd
Saturdays 9-11, Mid-May to mid-October
Pittsfield Farmers’ Market
Corner of Hathorn Park, across from the Church of the Nazarene, 200 Central St. Mondays 2-6, May through October
Portland Farmers’ Market –Deering Oaks At Deering Oaks Park
Wednesdays and Saturdays 7-1, April through November
Presque Isle Farmers’ Market at Riverside
Riverside Pavilion, 19 Riverside Drive
Saturdays 8:30-12:30, June-October
(Downtown) Rangeley Farmers’ Market
On the corner of Depot Street and Main St, next to The Hideaway
Thursdays, 10 am - 2 pm
Mid-May - Mid-Oct
Rangeley Area Farmers’ Market
Sandy River Planation, Intersection of Rte 4 & South Shore Drive Tuesdays 11-2, May through October
Continued on page 12
annual celebration (falling this year on August 4-10, 2024) highlights farmers’ markets in local food systems.
By Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets
Follow MFFM on social media and start planning your market visits! Share your support with #markethaul and tagging Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets! Maine Farmers’ Market Week is an annual celebration of the wonderful bounty, culture, and community that flourishes among Maine’s farmers’ markets. We invite everyone to explore their local farmers’ market or visit the mountains or coast to discover a new market. Farmers’ markets help hundreds of small food producers grow and sustain their businesses while also providing fresh food access and countless other benefits to their communities.
Find a nearby market, stay connected year-round
Use the summer market list starting on page 10
Year round: Visit mainefarmersmarkets.org
Search Maine Federation of Farmers’ Market’s online database. Sort by day of the week, zip code, or town
Farmers’ markets are accessible to all — learn how SNAP/EBT shoppers earn bonus bucks at farmers’ markets at www.maineharvestbucks.org
Rockland Farmers’ Market
In Harbor Park, just off Main St, right on the Public Landing
Thursdays 9-1, May through October
Rockport Farmers’ Market
Guini Ridge Farm Greenhouses, 310 Commercial St.
Saturdays 9-12, Year-round
Rumford Farmers Market
Exchange Street between Congress and River Saturdays, 9am to 12pm Memorial Day weekend to mid-October
Saco Farmers’ Market
Shaw’s Parking Lot, Spring St. Saturdays 8-12, May through October
Sabattus Farmers’ Market
On the lawn of Sabattus Town Office 190 Middle Rd.
Sundays 9-1, May through September
Sanford Farmers’ Market
At Central Park across from Town Hall Saturdays 8-12, Early May to Columbus Day
Scarborough Farmers’ Market
In the Town Hall parking lot, 259 U.S. Route 1 Sundays 9-1, June through October
Skowhegan Farmers’ Market
Somerset Gristmill (old jail), at Court and High Streets
Saturdays 9-1
May through October
Somerville - Pumpkin Vine Family
Farmers’ Market
In the red market building by the entrance to the farm, 217 Hewett Road
Sundays 11-3, Mid-May - Mid-October
South Berwick Farmers’ Market
197 Main St., Central Elementary School Mondays 3-6, June through September
South Portland Farmers’ Market
City Hall Parking Lot, 25 Cottage Road
Sundays 10-2, early May through October
Southwest Harbor Farmers’ Market
In the St. John’s Church parking lot across from Bar Harbor Bank on Main Street
Fridays 9-12:30, mid-June to Columbus Day
Steep Falls Farmers’ Market
Gazebo Park, 1 Main Street
Saturdays 9-2, May through October
Stonington Farmers’ Market
Island Community Center parking lot, School St. Fridays 10-12, May to September
Trenton Grange 550 Farmers Market
At the Trenton Grange 550, 1134 Bar Harbor Road, Trenton
Fridays 3-6, June-Oct
Union - New Union Farmers Market
61 Common Road, Union Fridays from 3:00pm-6:00pm June through early October
United Farmers’ Market of Maine –Belfast 18 Spring St., Belfast Saturdays 9-2, Year-round
Vinalhaven Farmers’ Market
Downtown on the corner of East Main Street and Atlantic Avenue at Flea Market Field Saturdays 8-12, June-November
Waterville – Downtown Waterville Farmers’ Market
By Two Penny Bridge, Head of Falls Thursdays 2-6, mid-April through Thanksgiving
Wayne Farmers’ Market
Main Street Park next to the Post Office Saturdays 9-12, Memorial Day to Labor Day Weekend
Wells Farmers’ Market
Wells Library, Post Rd (Rte 1) Wednesdays 1:30-5, June-September
Wilton Farmers’ Market
McGillicuddy Park, 430 Main Street Saturdays 9-1, May to October
Windham Farmers’ Market
Buck’s Barbeque back lot, 4 Turning Leaf Rd Saturdays 8:30-12:30, Late May to October
Winter Harbor Farmers’ Market
Newman Street Tuesdays 9-12, Mid-June to Labor Day
Wiscassett Farmers’ Market
Wiscassett Town Office, 51 Bath Road Fridays 9-1, June through October
Woodfords Corner Farmers’ Market
Parking lot of Woodfords Congregational Church at 202 Woodford St. Thursdays 3:30-6:30, June - early October
Yarmouth Farmers’ Market
Bickford Pavilion, 1 Railroad Square Thursdays 3-6, May through October
York Gateway Farmers’ Market
Greater York Region Chamber Visitor Center, 1 Stonewall Lane
Saturdays 9-1 and Thursdays, May to October
Visit a Maine Agricultural Fair This Year
Springfield Fair: June 13-16
Pittston Fair: June 20-23
Monmouth Fair: June 26-29
Union Fair: July 7-10
Ossipee Valley Fair: July 11-14
Houlton Fair: July 18-21
Waterford World’s Fair: July 19-21
Bangor State Fair: July 25-Aug 3
Northern Maine Fair: July 31-Aug 4
Topsham Fair: August 6-11
Skowhegan State Fair: August 8-17
Acton: August 22-25
Piscataquis Valley: August 22-25
Windsor Fair: August 24-Sept. 2
Washington County: August 24-25
Blue Hill Fair: August 29- Sept. 2
Harmony Free Fair: Aug 30-Sept 2
Clinton Lions Fair: September 5-8
Litchfield Fair: September 6-8
Oxford Fair: September 11-14
New Portland Lion’s Fair: Sept. 13-15
Farmington Fair: September 15-21
Common Ground Fair: Sept. 20-22
Cumberland Fair: September 22-28
Fryeburg Fair: Sept 29-Oct 6
Wild Maine Blueberry Weekend Returns August 3-4, 2024
Learn more about this special event, and find a list of sites at: www.wildblueberries.com/where-to-buy/wild-blueberry-weekend
Whether you’re from Maine or enjoying a Maine getaway, mark your calendar for this (wild) Maine tradition. If you’re looking for a new event to add to your summer fun list, we have something wild to share: The fourth annual Wild Blueberry Weekend is set for August 3-4, 2024. The Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine has organized this two-day, multi-location event to engage locals and visitors in celebrating Maine’s native berry and the local farms and businesses that propel this iconic Maine industry forward.
Attendees will be able to explore 17 different wild blueberry farms located in Franklin, Lincoln, Kennebec, Knox, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo, and Washington Counties for free. Some farms plan to open their doors to the public simply to sell delicious fresh wild blueberries directly to consumers, while others will host a wide range of farm activities and tours.
Additionally, dozens of Maine businesses are gearing up to serve special food and beverages made with wild blueberries throughout the weekend.
For a full list of the participating local wild blueberry farms and businesses (and the incredible activities they have planned), visit www.wildblueberryweekend.com.
If you decide to join the fun and participate in Wild Blueberry Weekend, make sure to tag us using #WildBlueberryWeekend, and follow along with @wildblueberries on Instagram and Facebook.
Checklist of Summer Activities to Celebrate Maine Agriculture
Find
By Real Maine
Maine flavors and farm goods wherever you shop. Summer is a great time to shop at a local farmstand or farmers’ market where you can buy a variety of products. Look for Maine-brands when grocery shopping at a local retailer or supermarket—many stores showcase Maine brands. If you are looking for a particular item, feel free to ask!
See the sights, meet the farmers all summer long! Make a day of getting to know more about farming in Maine with a visit to any of the Open Farm Day sites July 28, a wild blueberry field for Wild Blueberry Weekend on August 3-4, Farmers’ Market Week August 4-10, Open Winery Day August 24, and the Maine Cheese Festival Sept. 8!
Savor the harvest. Try a new recipe, or start preserving the fresh harvest with canning and freezing. You can find a variety of bulk choices at u-pick, Pick Your Own “PYO” farms, and even farmstands. Need help with recipes? Let UMaine Cooperative Extension be your guide. FMI: extension.umaine.edu/foodhealth/food-preservation/preserving-the-harvest.
Experience and explore Maine foods, traditions and fun. From the Maine The Maine Artisan Bread Fair (July 27, 2024) to special educational workshops, tastings and pop-up markets, you can a summer favorite that fills your curiosity. Visit Real Maine.com for a list of ideas!
Find Maine ice cream, made with Maine milk or cream. There are hundreds of places you can find ice cream, frozen custards and gelato in Maine. But not all of them source milk or cream from Maine dairies. Follow the Real Maine ice cream trail to savor all the deliciousness while supporting local businesses that use Maine ingredients! Find a list of sites and interactive map at Visit realmaine.com/ seasons/summer/real-maine-ice-cream-trail.
Share the Road on the Scenic Route this Summer
There is plenty to see and appreciate along Maine’s scenic routes, and as the seasons change, so do the traffic patterns of vehicles, animals, people and communities. These are signs of the local economy and business at work. It’s not uncommon to see tractors and heavy equipment sharing the road on their way to plant or harvest crops. Or to come upon livestock crossing a roadway as they relocate from one pasture to another, or to and from the dairy barn milking parlor. In towns across Maine, parks and parking areas transform into temporary shopping destinations with farmers’ markets, fairs and festivals. Wherever your travels take you, please give extra care getting there and back with these tips:
• Space. Don’t tailgate or crowd.
• Pace. Drive slow until the tractor arrives at the destination, or you may safely pass.
• Play it Safe. Practice safety for everyone’s sake.
Celebrate Maine Farms and Products with a Real Maine Roadtrip!
It’s easy to search for farm products and experiences across Maine. Simply visit realmaine.com where you can search farms and more — or create a roadtrip of farms and businesses to explore. You can even share your itinerary with friends and family or on social media. And, if you’d like, you can print your customized trip plan to carry with you during your travels. Happy exploring!
1. Visit realmaine.com/itinerary
2. Select “View All Members” button to locate dozens of Real Maine members.
3. Narrow your choices – use any of these methods for easy filtering:
• Type keyword(s) or location in search fields. Optional: Select a distance. Click “Use My Location” for real-time location settings (requires location access on your browser or device).
• Click an icon for a pre-filtered assortment of business categories.
• Use the checkboxes to “Refine Your Search” by Activity (for example, PYO), Farm Products (for example, Fruit), Ways to Buy (for example, Retail, Farm Stand), etc. Locate “Refine Your Search” on the left side of a computer screen on a PC or the bottom of a mobile device screen.
4. Add a stop to your trip by clicking the add to my trip button on the member profile.
5. Click “View your trip” to see your curated list. You can adjust your list as desired.
6. Optional: Share with others, save or print.
Planning a day of sites?
You can add them to a trip itinerary and save, print or share it with others! It’s easy...
Refine your search
PLAN AN OPEN FARM DAY ROADTRIP!
These sites are open Sunday, July 28
Liberation Farms
1002 GARDINER ROAD, WALES
Gallifreyan Farm
133 CODFISH RIDGE RD, LINNEUS
Phillip View Farm
723 BRIDGTON RD, SEBAGO
Misty Acres Alpaca Farm
3071 WEST RIVER RD, SIDNEY
Straw’s Farm
30 BRICK HILL ROAD, NEWCASTLE
Treworgy Family Orchards
3876 UNION ST, LEVANT
ENJOY A WILD MAINE
BLUEBERRY ROADTRIP!
Wild Blueberry Weekend is Aug. 3-4
BLUEBERRY HILL FARM
231 BLUEBERRY HILL FARM RD, ACTON
DRAGONFLY MEADOW BLUEBERRY FARM
1 WEST LANE, ARUNDEL
PERSEVERANCE WILD
BLUEBERRY FARM
81 PREBLE LANE, KINGSBURY PLANTATION
BLUEBERRY BASKET
193 SPECTACLE POND ROAD, PORTER
CELEBRATE THE MAINE CHEESE FESTIVAL WITH A LOCAL CREAMERY VISIT!
The Maine Cheese Festival is Sept. 8
CLEARVIEW CIDER & CREAMERY
140 SHACKLEY HILL RD, LIVERMORE
CROOKED FACE CREAMERY
42 COURT ST, SKOWHEGAN
ABRAHAM’S CREAMERY
1000 ELM STREET, NEWPORT
CREAMY ACRES CREAMERY
472 BAGLEY HILL RD, TROY
Open Farm Day is Sunday, July 28, 2024
Maine Open Farm Day is celebrating 35 years!
Plan to visit one of these farms that will be open for visitors!
Visit REALMAINE.COM for more info.
TIPS: Most farms, but not all, are open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Some are also open Saturday, July 27. We recommend checking local listings before you head out. Examples include the RealMaine.com event calendar, individual farm websites, social media and phone. Farms may update schedules and activities as the event date nears.
If you’re new to this tradition, we recommend reading our online tips for visiting a farm.
Scan the code to view the pre-made trip itineraries and an interactive map of host sites REALMAINE.COM
ANDROSCOGGIN
Nezinscot Farm & Store
284 TURNER CENTER RD, TURNER
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 225-3231
Come sample different foods, tour the farm and gardens, experience a craft related to farming, enjoy lunch in our cafe, visit the animals, and much more! This is a great way to support your local farming community.
www.nezinscotfarm.com
Roebucks Angus
783 UPPER ST, TURNER
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 754-1558
Roebucks Angus welcomes you to come take a tour of our farm while enjoying a freshly prepared Angus Burger! Sit, relax and enjoy!
Boothby’s Orchard and Farm
1425 FEDERAL ROAD, RT 4, LIVERMORE
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 754-3500
Find us at our Rt 4 Farm Market for a wagon tour (weather permitting) of our homestead property and new plantings. Farm wine tastings for adults, crafts for kids and cheese samples for all.
www.boothbysorchard.com
Liberation Farms
1002 GARDINER ROAD, WALES
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 11 AM-2 PM (207) 784-5556
Visit Liberation Farms, connect with the Somali Bantu Community Association and learn more about our work in the community. Check out the vegetable fields and youth garden, meet the goat herd, shop for fresh produce in the Suuq/farmstand, sample Somali snacks and enjoy the shade in our pavilion.
www.somalibantumaine.org
Willows Awake Winery
10 LEEDS JUNCTION ROAD, LEEDS
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 12 PM-5 PM 207-518-8076
Vineyard and winery tours, wine tasting and food. www.willowsawake.com
Old Crow Ranch
427 DAVIS ROAD, DURHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 329-8775
Old Crow Ranch is a 70-acre, family-owned, pasture-based livestock farm in beautiful Durham. We operate on a modified Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) system and offer stellar wholesale meat to our customers. Or, you can buy cuts directly from our farm store year-round. www.oldcrowranch.com
Buckley Farms
1313 ROUTE 106, LEEDS
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 754-0319
Farm tour with a focus on our regenerative production practices. An opportunity to view some of our animals and learn about local agriculture. We will have tractors on display and provide samples of our grass fed beef. www.farmersgatemarket.com
Canty Cow Creamery
278 UPPER ST, TURNER
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM 207-713-5145
Premium, homemade frozen custard using natural ingredients, simple recipes and fresh, award-winning milk from our own happy, healthy cows. cantycow.com
AROOSTOOK
Gallifreyan Farm
133 CODFISH RIDGE RD, LINNEUS
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 358-0306
We have sheep! And alpacas! And an emu! www.GallifreyanFarm.com
McElwain’s Strawberry Farm
711 SWEDEN ST, CARIBOU
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 498-8276
Check out and Learn about our Shiitake Mushroom Production and Walk through the Herb Mandala, learn about the Significance of the Mandala and take home a sample of our Herbal Tea or Culinary Mix. www.mcelwainstrawberryfarm.com
A Better Day Counseling and Farms, LLC
41 JOHNSON RD, NEW SWEDEN
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM
(207) 999-1267
Come out and meet our equine partners with a hands on educational opportunity to learn all about how horses, donkeys and mules help us learn, grow and heal.
Hvaczone & Homesteading Farms
73 UPLAND WAY, LUDLOW
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 576-8751
Speciality crops and animals and livestock
CUMBERLAND
Ten Apple Farm
241 YARMOUTH RD, GRAY
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 657-7880
Stop by the farm, say hello to the baby goats, the big goats, miniature horses, wooly pigs, and of course, Philip the sheep! Take a walk through the orchard or even explore the woods here at the farm. Farm shop will be open with treats, merch, and free stickers! www.tenapplefarm.com
Sweet Relief Farm
33 FLORENCE LN, STEEP FALLS
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 675-3410
Check out and Learn about our Shiitake Mushroom Production and Walk through the Herb Mandala, learn about the Significance of the Mandala and take home a sample of our Herbal Tea or Culinary Mix. sites.google.com/sweetrelieffarm.com
Smiling Hill Farm
781 COUNTY RD, WESTBROOK
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 775-4818
Free Milk A Cow, Cow Barn Tours, Wagon Rides *weather permitting* www.smilinghill.com
Saco River Farms
29 WEEMAN RD, STEEP FALLS
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 642-9090
Take a tour of our farm & micro goat dairy. Visit our farmyard friends and petting area. Schedule a private goat snuggle/photo session or take a river walk with our goat kids! Cheese sampling all weekend. www.sacoriverfarms.com
Phillip View Farm
723 BRIDGTON RD, SEBAGO
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 787-3391
Come visit our farm! See our Scottish Highland Cows. Farm store open to purchase 100% grass fed beed, pasture raised pork, eggs, maple syrup, jams, relish and more.
Maine State Society For the Protection of Animals
279 RIVER ROAD, WINDHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-2 PM (207) 892-3040
The MSSPA will have horse training demonstrations, meet the horses, volunteer led tours of the farm, children’s farm activities, and Treasure’s Tack Shack (gently used tack for sale) will be open on Open Farm Day. www.msspa.org
Orchard Ridge Farm
236 SEBAGO LAKE RD, GORHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 8 AM-5 PM (207) 712-1433
Roam the orchard, meet our pigs, chickens, & goats, grab a bite to eat & drink from our farm store!
orchardridge.farm
Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
707 SHAKER RD, NEW GLOUCESTER
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 12 PM-4 PM (207) 926-4597
Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village is among the oldest farms in Maine still operated under the same management, since 1783. See Scottish highland cattle, a flock of more than 60 sheep, bees, barn cats, apple orchards, herb gardens, and vegetable gardens. www.maineshakers.com
Acker’s
Acres Angoras
359 GLOUCESTER HILL ROAD, NEW GLOUCESTER
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 926-4921
See Angora Rabbits and the lovely yarns spun from their gorgeous woolen fiber. Spinning demos.
Underhill Fibers
50 WILSON RD, GORHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM 207-756-0076
We are a spinning and carding mill. Where we turn raw wool into yarn and rovings. underhillfibers.com
Caswell Farm
120 WHITNEY RD, GRAY Open Farm Day Event: Sun 12-5 PM (207) 650-0481
Located in Gray, Caswell Farm sits on 50 acres of land with 2 acres in production of veggies, herbs, and flowers for our Farm Stand, wholesale accounts, and events. We are women of color owned and operated and strive to be active participants in our local community by providing a space for all to learn and grow. www.caswellfarmmaine.com
Mayberry Farm
763 BRIDGTON RD, SEBAGO
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 787-4113
We sell bedding plants, perennials,flowers and veggie seedlings/ April to September. July to September we have a small farm stand selling our own veggies.
Tripping Gnome Farm
64 LUPINE LANE, FREEPORT
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 11 AM-4 PM (508) 596-5222
Visit Tripping Gnome Farm on Open Farm Day to see how we grow our mushrooms and microgreens, take a stroll through our fields, and play a round of free disc golf! www.trippinggnome.com
Pismire Mountain Fiber Farm
338 RAYMOND HILL ROAD, RAYMOND
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM 2076717417
You can meet the alpacas and feed them. We will have snacks for them. www.pismiremountainfiber.com
FRANKLIN
Black Acres Farm
123 BLACK ROAD, WILTON
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 9 AM-3 PM (207) 491-4667 / 491-5443
Black Acres Farm is a third generation diversified farm. The farm specializes in grass fed beef, pasture raised pork, free range broilers along with our syrup operation, honey and eggs. The farm also operates a 1,200 tap maple orchard producing 200 gallons of syrup annually. We also offer our customers pasture raised pork, pasture raised broilers, fresh free range eggs and locally sourced honey.
Shady Lane Farm
108 BRAHMER RD, NEW VINEYARD
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-4 PM (207) 491-8613
Enjoy guided educational farm tours. We have many different species of animals, as well as a butcher shop.
Maine Local Living School
71 LAKE DRIVE, TEMPLE
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 11 AM-3 PM (207) 778-0318
We will lead tours of the homestead including the ice house, root cellar, greenhouse and gardens, solar food dehydrator, animal barn, and the classroom/workshop. Visitors will learn about and interact with earth-friendly systems including rainwater collection and solar water heating, rocket stoves and outdoor kitchens, composting toilets, and alternative building construction. www.mainelocalliving.org
The Cabin — Farm Stand & Community Garden
578 INDUSTRY ROAD, FARMINGTON
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 778-1181
Everyone is welcome! Visit our off-grid farm shop for delicious foods, preserves, and gifts. At 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., take a guided garden walk to learn about ways we increase biodiversity, pollination, and plant health through companion planting, trap crops, and no-till gardening. www.lovegrownhemp.com
JB Farm
140 STINCHFIELD HILL ROAD, CHESTERVILLE
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 399-7652
We are a small farm raising registered Hereford and Belted Galloway Beef Cattle, as well as a small variety of poultry. We offer turkey, lamb, and assorted cuts of pork and beef, including bacon! Occasionally we have sides or quarters available. We offer old fashioned donuts every weekend, and on occasion we fill our bakery case with cinnamon rolls, muffins, whoopie pies and fudge. jbfarmme.com
Thistle Moon Farmstead
83 MCLAUGHLIN RD, WILTON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 645-4678
Thistle Moon Farmstead is located in the Western Maine Foothills of Wilton. When purchased in 2020, the historic farm (FKA Wilton Blueberry Farm) had been producing high-bush blueberries since 1946. We are excited to continue to offer pick-your-own blueberries to the public along wtith the addition of cut flowers, herbs, vegetables and pumpkins as well as our line of botanicals soaps and natural skin and body care products. www.thistlemoonfarmstead.com
HANCOCK
Northern Bay Organics
58 WESTERN COUNTY RD., PENOBSCOT
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 299-3730
Farm tour including hands on demonstrations covering crop maintenance, harvest techniques, bed rotation, and forestry management. www.northernbayorganics.com
KENNEBEC
Applewald Farm
525 HUNTINGTON HILL ROAD, LITCHFIELD
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 9 AM-4 PM (207) 268-9276
We will offer farm tours including the cider press room and potato digging demonstrations. We will have samples and treats available. No dogs (other than official service animals) allowed. applewaldfair.wixsite.com/farm
Versicolor
28 WILLETTE DRIVE, SOUTH CHINA
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 480-0332
Visit the dye garden and participate in the dyeing process. Naturally dyed yarns and fine handknits for sale. See the on-going re-wilding of this small site.
Hart-to-Hart Farm & Education Center
16 DUCK POND LN, ALBION
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 437-2441
Certified Organic dairy and education center. We milk 60 head of registered Jerseys and are owners-members of Organic Valley. We have received numerous awards for our high quality products and livestock. We have an farm stand on site to purchase products.
www.hart2hartfarm.org
Bittersweet Heritage Farm
519 PORT CLYDE RD, PORT CLYDE
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 629-7002
Misty Acres Alpaca Farm
3071 WEST RIVER RD, SIDNEY
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 547-2268
Come to spend the day with our alpacas. Learn all about them and view many products we produce from their fiber. mistyacresalpaca.com
Winterberry
Farm
538 AUGUSTA ROAD, BELGRADE
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 9 AM-5 PM (207) 649-3331
A horse and oxen powered farm for the past 25 years with a CSA of vegetables and cut flowers, hosting visitors on Open farm day for 18 of those years. We will have farm tours set up, music, pizza and the farm store is open with lots of our farm grown and made goodies, stop by with a picnic blanket and love up the farm. www.winterberryfarmstand.com
Anchor ME Farm
584 RIDGE ROAD, WINDSOR
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 445-8192
Come and learn about the nonprofit. Our mission is to provide a safe space for people dealing with PTSD, depression or anything else by doing de-stressing activities with our animals. www.anchormefarm.com
Coastal farm highlighting fiber animals, dairy goats, farm shop featuring Maine made products, fresh farm baked goods. mymainefarmgirl.com
ME Water Buffalo Co.
232 OLD COUNTY RD, APPLETON Open Farm Day Event: Sun 11 AM-4 PM (207) 701-7283
Come meet the water buffalo at ME Water Buffalo Co., tour the farm, cuddle the calves & meet the rest of the critters. The farmstore will be open & stocked with water buffalo cheeses, yogurt, gelato, farm meats & farm logo swag. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the farm lawn. www.mewaterbuffaloco.co
Seacolors Yarnery at Meadowcroft Farm
45 HOPKINS RD, WASHINGTON Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 845-2587
Please come meet the only Polwarth Sheep on the North and South American continents, (tours at 11 and 1). And the lovely working dogs who make it all happen. Small Batch Yarns, One of a Kind Sweaters and limited edition Blankets available for sale: Solar dyed in Seawater. Flush toilet and hand washing stations on site.
www.getwool.com
Sweet Season Farm
77 LIBERTY RD, WASHINGTON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 8 AM-5 PM (207) 845-3028
Join us for a fun day in the upick blueberry field. Sample our blueberries, baked goods and discounts on your upick adventure. efreardon.wixsite.com/mysite
Brodis Blueberries
86 JONES HILL ROAD, HOPE
Open Farm Day Event:
Sat & Sun 10 AM-5 PM (207) 593-2946
We are lucky that Maine Farm Days falls within our FRESH WILD BLUEBERRY SEASON! Our farm store will be open and stocked with fresh berries, jams, sauces and more! The kitchen will have muffins, pies and other blueberry snacks!
www.brodisblueberries.com
Turner Farm
73 TURNER FARM ROAD, NORTH HAVEN
Open Farm Day Event:
Sat & Sun 10 AM-2 PM (207) 867-4962
Turner Farm is a diversified organic farm on the island of North Haven in Penobscot Bay, Maine. We grow MOFGA-certified organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers. We also produce pasture-raised beef and pork. Our products are featured at various island restaurants and catered events, as well as in our farm stand and Barn Suppers. We welcome visitors all four seasons! www.turner-farm.com
Tenderwild Farm
33 GURNEY ST, ROCKPORT
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 593-1321
Farm tours will be given throughout the day. Come learn about the benefits of bio-intensive, no-till farming. Fill your picnic basket with delicious items purchased from our farm store to enjoy at bucolic locations across the farm.
LINCOLN
Pumpkin Vine Family Farm
217 HEWETT RD, SOMERVILLE
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 11 AM-3 PM (207) 549-3096
Join us for a day of laughter, learning, and lunch! Our guided tours include plenty of goat love, (there’s usually a baby goat parade midday!) and our farmers market provides delicious local food, so bring your picnic basket and camera and make a day of it! www.pumpkinvinefamilyfarm.com
Cape Newagen Alpaca Farm
1020 HENDRICKS HILL RD, SOUTHPORT
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 12 PM-4 PM (207) 633-0416
Our Open Farm Day activities are suitable for all ages! We provide activities to engage our visitors in all aspects of raising fiber animals from meeting the animals to working with their raw fiber and observing how we create a beautiful yarn from our raw fiber! www.capenewagenfarm.com
Broad Arrow Farm Market & Butcher
33 BENNER RD, BRISTOL
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 11 AM-5 PM (207) 800-4550
Self-guided farms tours. The Rooting Pig will be open with food & beverages. www.broadarrowfarm.com
Odd Alewives Farm Brewery
99 OLD ROUTE 1, WALDOBORO
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 12 PM-5 PM (207) 790-8406
Farmed and foraged ingredients used exclusively in the brewery and wood fired kitchen at Odd Alewives Farm Brewery. www.oddalewives.com
SeaLyon Farm
1788 ALNA RD, ALNA
Open Farm Day Event: Sat 10 AM-3 PM (207)290-2954
We will have PYO lavender, horse wagon rides, a food truck, a variety of vendors, lavender ice cream from Round Top Ice cream, and a variety of lavender products in the Sealyon Farm store. Also, watch us steam distil lavender to make essential oil and hydrosal www.sealyonfarm.com
The Byre Farm
25 ROCK SCHOOL HOUSE RD., BRISTOL
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM 207-529-5639
Farm tour of silvopasture practices with sheep and Highland Cattle. byrefarm.com/
Lakin’s Gorges Cheese at East Forty Farm
2361 FRIENDSHIP RD, WALDOBORO
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 230-4318 lakinsgorgescheese.com/ east-forty-farm
Straw’s Farm
30 BRICK HILL ROAD, NEWCASTLE
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM (617) 767-9272
Kids activities & farm store
OXFORD
Morning Glory Farm
343 FLAT ROAD, BETHEL
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 381-0321
Join us for a farm tour to see our small diversified organic farm. We will have pizza from our woodfired oven available by donation, as well as freshly baked cookies for purchase. Our award winning Smoke Bomb hotsauce will be available to sample and purchase. www.morninggloryfarmmaine.com
Conant Acres
49 CANTON POINT ROAD, CANTON
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10AM-5PM (207) 597-2810
Our 5th generation dairy farm welcomes families and guests of all ages to tour the farm, play with the calves and visit our on-farm market, which features milk, cheese, meat, seasonal produce and a variety of other Maine-made goodies. Food truck and other vendors will be on-site too!
Foxx Run Farm LLC
1912 PEQUAWKET TRAIL, HIRAM Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 632-3375
We are a working farm with a focus in homesteading and sharing our experiences through Agritourism. We strive to educate through experiences, farmstays, and workshops with special attention to sustainable and regenerative farming practices. www.foxxrunfarm.com
PENOBSCOT
Wyld Dream Farm
1157 AVENUE RD, EXETER
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-4 PM (207) 631-4265 Wylddreamfarm.com
Treworgy Family Orchards
3876 UNION ST, LEVANT
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 12-5 PM (207) 884-8354
Beautiful pick-your-own fruit farm with petting zoo, ice cream, cafe, play area, and corn maze! www.treworgyorchards.com
Marble Creek Acres
279 WINN RD, LEE
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 290-3694
Marble Creek Acres welcomes you to stop by our small acreage farm and visit our farm store and tasting room. Learn about goats, honeybees, dwarf-tree apple growing, winemaking and other adventures that we are embarking on. www.marblecreekacres.com
Loud Dog Farm
535 BETTS RD, ORRINGTON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 450-2143
Focusing on public education and outreach, we primarily keep American Heritage breeds as well as rare breeds of livestock. We offer farm services and classes for all experience levels. We also have farm tours. louddogfarm.weebly.com
PISCATAQUIS
Nubik Ranch LLC
473 EAST SANGERVILLE ROAD, SANGERVILLE
Open Farm Day Event:
Sat & Sun 10 AM-5 PM (207) 509-5494
Introduction to honey bees in commercial honey farm. Sampling and tasting variety of raw honey. nubikranch.com
Ripley Farm
62 MERRILLS MILLS RD, DOVER-FOXCROFT
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 12-3 PM (207) 564-0563
Ripley Farm is a MOFGA Certified Organic small family farm run by Gene and Mary Margaret Ripley. We offer year-round organic vegetable CSA shares (on the farm and delivery to Bangor/Brewer areas), online vegetable preorders, native/medicinal/edible perennial plants, and annual vegetable/ flower/herb seedlings. Tour our 6 acres of organic vegetables. Meet our organic cows, pigs, sheep, goats and chickens. Buy veggies to take home. And stay afterwards for a free class on making sourdough! www.ripleyorganicfarm.com
Widdershins
843 BEAR HILL ROAD, DOVER-FOXCROFT
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 564-7926
Widdershins is a second generation creamery and farm. Our creamery products include raw cow milk, raw goat milk, cheese, yogurt and lassi. We also raise heritage pork and grass fed beef. Goat milk and lard from the farm is used to make artisan soap.
SAGADAHOC
Dandelion
Spring Farm
961 RIDGE RD, BOWDOINHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 380-4199
Visit the farm based art exhibit in the The Hive, the new timber frame barn, relax with a short chair massage. Enjoy local food, art, and music. For more info and to sign up for a massage, visit the DSF website. dandelionspringfarm.com
Apple Creek Farm, LLC
538 MILLAY RD, BOWDOINHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-2 PM (207) 948-3022
Apple Creek Farm produces organic & grassfed beef, chicken, eggs, goat and lamb. Join farmer-led tours at 10:15, 11:15, and 12:15 or take a self-guided tour through the farm’s shady, wooded trails. You’ll meet the animals, enjoy activities for children, browse the farm store, and meet several local artists too! For more information visit the farm’s website. www.applecreekfarm.me
Edge Water Farm Flowers
71 SMALL POINT RD, PHIPPSBURG
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 389-1322
Flowers for bouquets and perennials/shrubs/ raspberry plants to dig.
Stonecipher Farm
1186 RIVER ROAD, BOWDOINHAM
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 737-4124
We are a small certified organic mixed vegetable and fruit farm. We are a no-till farm, with an emphasis on bio-diversity. We have an acre of greenhouses, and specialize in ginger and turmeric. We have a farm store open 7 days a week. stonecipherfarm.com
Eros Oyster Farm
145 HEALD RD., GEORGETOWN
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 751-7956
Family owned and operated oyster farm selling direct to restaurants and consumers throughout the country. We also welcome guests to the farm for U-Pik oysters, tasting tours, and catered events. www.erosoyster.com
Willows Highlands
36 FURLONG ROAD, RICHMOND
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 737-9321
SOMERSET
Martin Woods Farm
24 ABIJAH HILL RD, STARKS
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-4 PM (207) 696-3060
Pony rides, petting zoo, farm tours, farm fresh food available martinwoodsfarmmaine.com
WALDO
Seek-No-Further Farmstead 522 W MAIN ST, MONROE
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM (857) 939-0248
Seek-No-Further Farmstead offers a variety of fresh produce, goat dairy, and meat in our farm store! You can also take a walk around the farm, visit our goats on pasture, and enjoy a cone of our goat milk softserve ice cream! seeknofurtherfarmstead.com
Leafsong Family Farm
507 BACK BELMONT ROAD, BELMONT
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-5 PM (207) 342-2613
Come enjoy a flower filled day at our flower farm. Visit our flower boutique and bring home artisan floral arrangements, flower inspired gifts and farm grown plants from our greenhouse.
www.leafsongfamilyfarm.com
Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm — Maine Alpaca Experience
141 CROSBY BROOK RD, UNITY
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-4 PM (207) 356-2464
Discover what makes alpaca clothing so incredible and have your photo taken with amazing gentle animals. You are sure to fall in love with the alpacas and the beautiful clothing, toys, gifts and yarn in the farm gift shop. Bring a picnic and enjoy watching 36 alpacas while you relax and take in the beauty of Maine. Admission is free and event will happen rain or shine.
www.mainealpacaexperience.com
Fern Valley Farmstead LLC
275 GREEN VALLEY RD, STOCKTON SPRINGS
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 322-2888
Small Educational Farm and Farm shop fernvalleyfarmstead.com
Moosehead Maple Farm
1390 MOOSEHEAD TRAIL, JACKSON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (785) 410-0162
We are a small maple producer out of central Maine with only 250 taps, run on a woodfired evaporator. We specialize in maple syrup, maple coated nuts, maple sugar and candy as well as a bourbon-aged maple syrup. We are open Maine Maple Weekend or whenever boiling.
www.mooseheadmaplefarm.com
WASHINGTON
Englishman Bay Lavender Farm
167 JOHNSON COVE RD, ROQUE BLUFFS
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 259-0922
Tour a lavender farm, pollinator garden and honey bee apiary. U-pick-it lavender flowers, sachets, t-shirts, honey bees.
Itty
Bitty Farm
980 US RT. 1, COLUMBIA FALLS
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-2 PM (207) 266-9134
We’ll have a tour of the farm to introduce guests to our heritage breed pigs, rabbits, and chickens, and discuss how we built our small farm from scratch and what is involved in creating your own small farm or homestead.
Rime Nor Reason Farm
82 ARTHUR DAMON RD, CHARLOTTE
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 404-1177
Rime Nor Reason Farm is a Downeast example of sustainability and organic farming. Specializing in premium, certified organic CSAs, grass-fed beef, pastured poultry and more. Rime Farm is also known for our distinctive “blueberry field fed eggs,” a local favorite and a fun highlight of our farming methods. RimeFarm.com
Welch Farm
186 ROQUE BLUFFS RD, ROQUE BLUFFS
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM
207-951-2437
Founded in 1912, Welch Farm is owned by the Hanscom family in beautiful Rocque Bluffs. We sell fresh local blueberries when in season and have rental cabins located on the farm. welchfarm.com
Downeast Equine and Large Animal Sanctuary
460 HATCHERY ROAD, DEBLOIS
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 598-7738
Providing a forever home for abused or neglected farm animals from throughout Maine.
www.downeastequine.org
Three Dog Fahm
292 MAPLE TREE ROAD, LUBEC
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 733-2021
Started in 2004, Three Dog Fahm has a focus on providing the highest quality food as locally as possible. Specializing in washed greens, all our products can be found at the farm stand, Lubec Farmers Market, Lyons Market and Machias Marketplace.
YORK
Leary Farm, Inc.
269 FLAG POND RD, SACO
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 807-2839
Tours of the farm, meet the owners, visit our farm stand.
Blueberry
Hill Farm
231 BLUEBERRY HILL FARM RD, ACTON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 457-1151
Enjoy a variety of blueberry baked goodies! Pick your own highbush blueberries to take home!
www.blueberryhillfarm.us
Ewe and I Farm
286 ARUNDEL RD., KENNEBUNKPORT
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 468-1344
Self-guided garden tours, Handspinning demonstrations all day and a bee demo at 1pm. A short demo on growing microgreens will also be given.
Prospect Hill Winery and Vineyard
318 ORRILLS HILL RD, LEBANON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 12 PM-5 PM (207) 651-9335
Join us for tours and tastings of our award winning wines. www.prospecthillwines.com
Southern Maine Stockyard
328 OSSIPEE HILL RD, E. WATERBORO
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 815-0267
View and tour the farm! Tour will include poultry processing building and process, show cattle demonstration, and farm products to purchase on site. www.southernmainestockyard.com
November’s Harvest Farm
46 SHAVING HILL RD, LIMINGTON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-3 PM 207-591-9112
Explore the woods, pasture, and vegetable gardens. Make a barnyard critter friend or two or three. Products available for purchase. noharvest.wordpress.com
Unique Maine Farms
515 GARLAND ROAD, WEST NEWFIELD
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-4 PM 207-793-2759
A large variety of perennial flowers, herbs, and native plants will be available for sale at the Doyle Family Farm. in West Newfield. Proceeds benefit the Unique Maine Farms project. www.uniquemainefarms.com
SPIRITWIND FARM LLC
57 SPIRITWIND FARM RD, LEBANON
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM 207-806-0076
Petting zoo, pony rides, hay rides, food truck, goat milk products, farm stand www.spiritwindfarmLLC.com
Rivard Farm
110 BLANCHARD RD, SPRINGVALE
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 8 AM-5 PM 2075024820
PYO operation open 7am-6pm, On Open Farm Day/Farmstand/Meet the Farmer open 9am-3pm.
Ferment Farm
406 HANSON RIDGE ROAD, SPRINGVALE
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-3 PM (207) 254-9416
Participating farm on the 10th Annual Springvale Farm Walk. Visitors will see and hear about the various crops, organic growing practices and products offered (produce, small batch ice cream). Additionally, there will be refreshing drinks to sample and purchase. NOTE: no public restrooms at location. www.fermentfarm.com
Frinklepod Farm
244 LOG CABIN RD, ARUNDEL Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 11 AM-3 PM (207) 289-5805
Visit our farm store featuring organic produce and a wide selection of locally-made products, pick your own flowers, & enjoy non-dairy soft serve ice cream! www.frinklepodfarm.com
Hillbilly Homestead
57 SPIRIT WIND FARM ROAD, LEBANON
Open Farm Day Event: Sun 10 AM-4 PM (207) 850-1952
Petting Zoo, Pony Rides, Tractor Drawn Rides, Kid Activities, Vendor Fair, Farm Store
Elf-Paca Meadows LLC
45 LIBBY ROAD, WEST NEWFIELD
Open Farm Day Event: Sat & Sun 10 AM-4 PM 603-817-0356
Come visit the alpacas, shop in our farm store and enjoy the beautiful views from the top of our hill. www.elfpacameadows.com
McDougal Orchards LLC
201 HANSON RIDGE RD, SPRINGVALE
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM
(207) 324-5054
Apples, and so much more! We are open midAugust through the end of October. McDougal Orchards is a diversified seventh generation family farm in Southern Maine specializing in the production of high quality apples for sale to pick-your-own and farm stand. www.mcdougalorchards.com
Lavender Hill Farm
11 BROOKS LANE, BERWICK
Open Farm Day Event:
Sun 10 AM-3 PM
(603) 502-0773
At Lavender Hill Farm, we grow three main crops: Christmas trees, lavender, and sheep. We are a small family farm and we open to visitors a few times throughout the year. www.lh-farm.com
Flock to the Farms!
We invite you to join us in walking from farm to farm in our agricultural pocket of Springvale during the weekend of July 27 and July 28 to celebrate Maine Open Farm Day.
The tenth annual Springvale Farm Walk is a self-guided walk between farms linked by mowed paths and gravel trails. The 10 different farms along the route raise sheep, orchard fruit, vegetables, herbs, berries and more. This year the theme of the walk is “Birds and their Habitats.” Each farm will provide a collectible bird identification card and may have refreshments or additional farm items for sale.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. There is no single starting time or place. Parking is available at multiple farms and there are bathrooms and port-a-johns along the route. The paths are well-marked and kid friendly. Sturdy shoes and dressing according to the weather forecast are recommended. Mountain bikers, runners, and dogs on leashes are also welcome.
A barn contra dance featuring live band Stomp Rocket and caller Alyssa Adkins will go from 6-8pm on Saturday evening, July 27th at McDougal Orchards (ticketed event). Also, a birdwalk guided by York County Audubon is scheduled to start at 8 a.m. on Sunday, July 28th at McDougal Orchards.
Maps and updated details can be found at the Springvale Farm Walk Facebook page. We hope to see you there!
From Maine farms to Maine families.
Let’s raise a glass to that!
