Generations of Growers | Farmers Markets | Ties that Bind In partnership with Frederick County Office of Economic Development | Supplement to Frederick Magazine
Our Family Serving Yours Since 1848.
For over 165 years, we have served families in the community. They trust our staff and the commitment we have made to them. 106 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701 301.662.2175 www.keeneybasford.com
KEENEY & BASFORD, P.A. Funeral Home
Supplement to Frederick Magazine
PUBLISHERS Shawn Dewees Joseph Silovich MANAGING EDITOR Nancy Luse ART DIRECTOR & PRODUCTION MANAGER Matthew Piersall GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Annie Ellis Matthew Piersall CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Turner Photography Studio FREDERICK COUNTY OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Helen Propheter, director Heather Gramm, assistant director Katie Albaugh, agriculture business development specialist Sharon Hipkins, administrative assistant ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Linda Dove ldove@fredmag.com Leslie Lillo llillo@fredmag.com Jean Wright jwright@fredmag.com DISTRIBUTOR Josh Ensor alloutdist@aol.com
In operation since the mid-1800s, family owned and operated for seven generations! Visit us at the farm or find our produce at local farmers markets. Farm market open daily from 10 am — 6 pm. Check our Facebook page for details and events.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Stephanie Dewees subscriptions@fredmag.com
Telephone: 301-662-8171 FAX: 301-662-8399
www.fredmag.com Letters to the editor: editor@fredmag.com
16239 Sabillasville Rd. • Sabillasville, MD www.scenicvieworchards.com • 301-271-2149
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Homegrown Frederick is an annual publication of Diversions Publications, Inc., 6 N. East Street, Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701-5601 (ISSN 006-923). Periodicals postage paid at Frederick, MD. Subscriptions to Frederick Magazine, $24.95 per year, which includes the Homegrown Frederick and all other annual guides (available through the business office). Back issues w/in the last 12 mo/$3.95. Prior to 12 mos. ago/$7. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Frederick Magazine, 6 N. East Street, Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701-5601. Customer inquiries to same address or call 301-662-8171. Distributed through mail subscriptions, home delivery, and sold at newsstands and other locations in Frederick, Upper Montgomery counties, and throughout the Central Maryland region. Advertising rates available on request. Manuscripts, drawings, and other submissions must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Frederick Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited material. All rights to submissions, including letters and e-mail, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and as subject to Frederick Magazine’s unrestricted right to edit and to comment editorially, unless otherwise negotiated with the author. © DIVERSIONS PUBLICATIONS, INC. 2017. All Printed on contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole Recycled or in part for any reason without prior approval of the publisher. Paper
CONTENTS 8
8 12 20
ABOUT THE COVER Johnsville Farm, home to these Jersey cattle, is one of Frederick County’s multi-generation farms.
Generations of Frederick County Farmers
28
Beneficial Bees
12
Markets Feed Local Residents
30
Family Festival @ the Farm
18
Spirits from the Farms
32
Sprouting in Northern Frederick
20
The Ties that Bind
34
Educating Farmers
24
Local Napa Valley
38
Farming as a New Career
26
Community Gardening
42
Farm Listings
7
Farming Continues to be the Way of Life Across the Generations
by Nancy Luse
Once upon a time farming was society’s main profession. Today, most people would have to go back decades to find a farmer in the family. Frederick County, however, can boast of families where the youngest members are anxious to step into the farming tradition, often on land that has been in the family since the time of their great-grandparents. Rodman Myers, 83, of Catoctin Mountain View Farm near Thurmont, heads such a family. With a grandfather and a father who were farmers, Myers says he also was inspired to continue making a living from the land, something that captured the heart of his son, Robert. “He decided he liked it. He was brought up like I was and hopefully he can keep farming after I go.” Robert echoes his father’s wishes, saying that seeing how successful his grandfather and dad were encouraged him to stay on the farm. “Nothing else really interested me. I like the challenges and the diversity. You can be a farmer, an electrician and a plumber all in the same day. I also like being out in the elements.” He laughs. “Except maybe when there’s a blizzard.” Robert says he has noticed how people are more aware of where their food originates, but there’s still a lack of understanding of what’s involved. “I wish they could spend a day or two on the farm and they could see.”
The farmer DNA has also passed to Robert’s son, Daniel, who works for construction company Morgan Keller, but still can be found at the farm on weekends or evenings working in the fields. Not being afraid of hard work is something Rodman says comes with being a farmer. He recalls a businessman telling him, ‘When a farm boy comes in looking for work I always hire him.” The family spread is actually three adjoining farms totaling 380 acres. Up until 10 years ago the farm had a dairy operation, but now raises beef cattle and crops of corn, wheat, soybeans, hay and barley. “I thought I would miss milking, but I don’t. You can enjoy life a little better not being pinned down” to milking twice a day, “although I was fortunate to have a good hired hand.” He laughs. “And I never thought I’d see robotic milkers.” His grandfather came from Frederick County in Winchester, Va. “He traded the poor ground there for Frederick County, Md.,
where the land is much, much better. The ground along the mountains is very productive.” When he and his late wife, Jean, started out farming they lived in a house with missing shingles and other disrepairs that “was air conditioned summer and winter, but we raised our kids there.” In 1973 they built a new house that his wife designed. In addition to Robert, the Myers had three daughters, Patty, Cheryl and Andrea. “They were all involved in the farm,” says Rodman, and were active in organizations such as 4-H and FFA. Their parents served as good role models for getting involved. Rodman, along with the late William Baker, an 9
agriculture teacher, helped start the Thurmont-Emmitsburg Community Show to highlight the area’s farming tradition. Rodman was named the Ag Advocate of the Year in 2016, was inducted in the Maryland Agriculture Hall of Fame, won a Wertheimer Award from the Community Foundation and was named a Master Farmer. “You don’t just do it on your own. I was honored to work 10
with a lot of people in the community,” and of course, his family. Rodman’s favorite time of the year is June. “That’s when the corn starts growing and the grains are turning nice colors.” He doesn’t obsess over the weather. Instead he sees the value of whatever arrives. Dry weather is good when you have to bring in hay, but if the rains come, “that’s good to make the corn grow.” “When I was young all the farmers worked together,” he says, remembering as a young boy going to various farms to pick string beans into large sacks. “They weighed them on the porch” to determine your pay. “Sometimes kids would put stones into the bags, but the farmer would say, ‘I’ll bet there are stones in here’ and dumped them out. ‘I’m not paying for stones,’ he would say.” As a youngster Rodman helped fill silos and plow the fields with a team of horses named Bud and Jack. His favorite job today is mowing hay, a time when he can climb on a tractor and see close-up how well the crop has done as well as “getting away from it all; you can be thinking about things.” He’s proud that people will stop and take pictures of his farm, appreciating the same beautiful landscape that he sees. Third Generation Orchard
Robert Black and his sister, Patricia Black, operate Catoctin Mountain Orchard in Thurmont, a third generation operation started by their father, Harry. “His father, who worked for the railroad, died young and at 16 my dad, who was the oldest of the siblings,” had to step up, says
Robert Black. “This was during the 1930s and times were tough.” Harry Black went to work for Ira Kelbaugh who owned a nearby orchard. “Dad was self-taught. I worked along with him to learn,” says Robert, including how to continue with the success of the retail market that was built in 1948. “He always told me to be sure everything was good from the bottom up,” he says, referring to filling up baskets of fruit for sale. “He said ‘make sure all your fruits are good and charge a fair price.’ That’s what we’ve done.” Robert says customers, some from Washington, Baltimore or Pennsylvania, will plan trips to Frederick
County centered on what’s in season at the market. “Then they’ll go to Mountain Gate or Shamrock to eat or go hiking.” The notion of pick-your-own has taken off with toddlers to those in their 90s enjoying time in the orchard that stretches across approximately 75 acres. “Who doesn’t like eating cherries in the car driving down (U.S.) 15 and spitting out the pits?” A close second is snacking on pie or apple dumplings from the Black’s bakery. Robert’s son, Christopher, works in the operation and some of the grandchildren have come on board at one time or another. Many members of the seasonal crew
have been with the family for decades. “I graduated from high school in 1969 (but) my education came from the Harry Black school of practical living,” Robert says. “And I don’t regret it.” ‘Roll with the Punches’
Richard Grossnickle recalls that “I came home from (high school) graduation and bailed hay that afternoon,” continuing the family farming tradition that has been passed along to his son, Robert and grandson Robert Jr. The Johnsville farm was once a dairy operation where they milked
Jerseys. Today they raise heifers for other farmers and grow wheat, corn, soybeans and hay. Grossnickle looks back at the way farming once was. “Years ago if you had 100 acres, an orchard and a garden you had everything you needed”—compared to today when “an acre of land costs $10,000,” he says, making it nearly impossible for the next generation unless they have a family farm. Often it’s the case where the kids have to leave to find work and even the farmer has to seek a supplemental career. For Grossnickle, politics and community service beckoned, first with a stint on the Frederick County Planning Commission in the early 1970s, followed by three terms as county commissioner. Although he enjoyed his time in Winchester Hall, Grossnickle is happiest when out in his fields. “It’s always something different; it’s not like you’re on an assembly line,” he says. “You roll with the punches… It gets in your blood.” 11
West Frederick — FARMERS MARKET
FARMERS MARKETS Brunswick Farmers Market Square Corner Park, corner of Potomac Street and Maple Avenue Saturdays, 9 a.m.–noon End of May–end of September
Emmitsburg Farmers Market 302 S. Seton Ave. Fridays, 3 p.m.–6:30 p.m. June–September
Everedy Square & Shab Row Market Church and East streets Thursdays, 3 p.m.–6 p.m. June–September
Farmers Market at NCI-Frederick Fort Detrick Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. May–October
Frederick City Market 331 N. Market St., Frederick Sundays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. May–November
Friends of Frederick Farmers Market 649 Himes Road Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. May–November
In the search to find food that hasn’t traveled thousands of miles, Frederick County residents have options ranging from weekly markets held during the growing season or Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) enterprises where you share in whatever bounty the farmer produces. Following are resources for fresh-from-the-farm-to-the-table offerings: Grace Farmers Market
Urbana Library Market
9380 Butterfly Lane Fridays, 3 p.m.–6 p.m. Mid-May–mid-November
9020 Amelung St., Urbana Sundays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. May–October Late season market, Oct. 16–Dec. 18 Mondays, 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
Jefferson Farmers Market 4603 Lander Road Wednesdays, 4 p.m.–7 p.m. May–September
Lake Linganore Farmers Market 6718 Coldstream Drive, New Market Thursdays, 4 p.m.–7 p.m. June–August
Middletown Farmers Market 12 S. Church St., Middletown Thursdays, 4 p.m.–7 p.m. May–October
Myersville Farmers Market 301 Main St., Myersville Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. April–October
Thurmont Main Street Market Municipal Center parking lot, South Center Street Saturdays, 9 a.m.–noon Mid-June–September
Walkersville Market Walkersville Volunteer Fire Department Fridays, 4 p.m.–7 p.m. June–August
West Frederick Farmers Market 797 E. Patrick St. Saturdays, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. May–November
West Frederick, LTD 1215 W. Patrick St. Saturdays, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. April–November
YMCA of Frederick Market 1000 N. Market Ave. Tuesdays, 3:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. May–October
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COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE (CSA) Big White Barn Produce 301-874-3173 www.bigwhitebarn.com
Full Cellar Farm 301-639-9711 www.fullcellarfarm.com
West Frederick —
House in the Woods Farm 301-607-4048 www.houseinthewoods.com
FARMERS MARKET
Oakie Doke Farms
Pleasant Hill Produce
Thanksgiving Farms
301-473-0723 www.oakiedokefarms.com
301-471-2699 www.pleasanthillproduce.com
301-662-1291 www.thanksgivingfarmandgarden.com
Open Book Farm
Rights of Man Farm
Twin Hills Farm
240-457-2558 www.openbookfarm.com
240-674-2727 www.rightsofmanfarm.com
301-788-2784 www.twinhillsfarmurbana.com
Seed of Life Nursery & CSA
ORCHARDS
240-344-6533 www.seedoflifefrederick.org
Shadows of Catoctin Farm 301-898-3228 www.shadowsofcatoctinfarm.com
South Mountain Creamery 301-371-8565 www.southmountaincreamery.com
Everedy Square & Shab Row
—
MARKET 14
Sycamore Spring Farm 301-788-6980 www.sycamorespringsfarm.org
Catoctin Mountain Orchard 301-271-2737 www.catoctinmountainorchard.com
Country Pleasures 6201 Harley Road, Middletown www.contrypleasuresfarm.com
Pryor’s Orchard 13841 B Pryor’s Road, Thurmont www.pryorsorchards.com
Scenic View Orchard 301-271-2149 www.scenicvieworchards.com
Frederick Equipment Co. 9640 Liberty Rd. Frederick,MD 21701 (301) 898-1200
WET YOUR WHISTLE FREDERICK FARMS ARE PART OF SPIRITS REVIVAL It seems that every few months a new brewery or distillery has opened in the county. These products were a large part of local commerce in the early days of our history so it’s another case of what’s old is new again. Many of the spirits being produced depend on local farm products, from hops to apples, to create a distinctive taste to their libations. It gives a whole other layer to the notion of consuming local. Visit www.homegrownfrederick.com to view a map of locations. ATTABOY BEER CO.
BLACK ANKLE VINEYARDS
400 Sagner Ave. Frederick www.attaboybeer.com
44463 Black Ankle Road Mount Airy www.blackankle.com
BARLEY AND HOPS
BREWER’S ALLEY
5473 Urbana Pike Frederick www.barleyandhops.net
124 N. Market St. Frederick www.brewers-alley.com
BERRYWINE PLANTATIONS LINGANORE WINECELLARS
CATOCTIN BREEZE VINEYARD
13601 Glissans Mill Road Mount Airy www.linganorewines.com
15010 Roddy Road Thurmont www.catoctinbreeze.com
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DISTILLERY LANE CIDER WORKS 5533 Gapland Road Jefferson www.distillerylaneciderworks.com
DRAGON DISTILLERY 1341 Hughes Ford Road, Suite 108 Frederick www.dragondistillery.com
ELK RUN 15113 Liberty Road Mount Airy www.elkrun.com
FLYING DOG BREWERY 4607 Wedgewood Blvd. Frederick www.flyingdogbrewery.com
FREY’S BREWING COMPANY 8601 Mapleville Road Mount Airy www.freysbrewing.com
HIDDEN HILLS FARM AND VINEYARD 7550 Green Valley Road Frederick www.hiddenhillsfarmandvineyard.com
LINKS BRIDGE VINEYARDS
MONOCACY BREWING
SMOKETOWN BREWING STATION
8830 Old Links Bridge Road Thurmont www.linksbridgevineyards.com
1781 N. Market St. Frederick www.monocacybrewing.com
223 W. Potomac St. Brunswick www.smoketownbrewing.com
LOEW VINEYARDS
NEW MARKET PLAINS VINEYARD
14001 Liberty Road (Md. 26) Mount Airy www.lowevineyards.com
11111 W. Baldwin Road New Market www.newmarketplains.com
SPRINGFIELD MANOR WINERY, DISTILLERY & BREWERY
MAD SCIENCE BREWING AT THANKSGIVING FARMS
OLDE MOTHER BREWING CO.
1619 Buckeystown Pike www.madsciencebrewing.com
911 E. Patrick St. Frederick www.oldemother.com
MAZZAROTH VINEYARD
ORCHID CELLAR MEADERY & WINERY
8333 Myersville Road Myersville www.mazzarothvineyard.com
8546 Pete Wiles Road Middletown www.orchidcellar.com
MCCLINTOCK DISTILLING
RED SHEDMAN FARM BREWERY
35 S. Carroll St. Frederick www.mcclintockdistilling.com
11836 Auburn Road Thurmont www.springfieldmanor.com
TENTH WARD DISTILLING CO. 508 E. Church St. Frederick www.tenthwarddistilling.com
WILLOW OAKS CRAFT CIDER 6219 Harley Road Middletown www.willowoakscraftcider.com
13601 Glissans Mill Road Mount Airy www.redshedman.com
MILKHOUSE BREWERY AT STILLPOINT FARM
ROCKWELL BREWERY
8253 Dollyhyde Road Mount Airy www.milkhousebrewery.com
880 N. East St. Frederick www.rockwellbrewery.com
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Orchid Cellar Meadery and Winery was having trouble finding fish peppers. They needed them for mead made in collaboration with Baltimore’s acclaimed Woodberry Kitchen. “The idea of it is everything in the bottle comes from within 50 miles of the restaurant,” says Dan Kennedy, Orchid’s sales and marketing manager. The drink—known as Fish Hunter—features honey, fish peppers and verjuice, an unripe green grape juice that comes from Orchid’s vineyard. For years Kennedy has been part of a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) at Shadows of Catoctin Farm in Thurmont. While talking with owner Sally Heber, he mentioned the need for fish peppers. She had a fair number of them already planted. The Meadery bought several pounds of the peppers which had to be completely dehydrated. “The only reason I knew they were going to be fantastic quality is that I have been buying vegetables for years now (from Heber) so I know anything she grows she is going to grow absolutely perfectly because that is the perfectionist that she is,” Kennedy says. This relationship is one of many that Orchid Cellar has with other local enterprises and they are not alone. Many area businesses will help each other out to keep products as local as possible. “For us, we are
very much concerned with quality,” Kennedy says. “Everything with us turns back to quality. If it is not good, we have no intention to make it and by sourcing things locally, we can oversee that a lot better. We can actually go to see where things are grown." Ravenrock Farm in Thurmont provides Hawaiian ginger for a mead called Duchess that is set to be released in the fall. Kennedy met the owner at a farmers market where she was selling several different varieties of the plant. “I tried (the Hawaiian ginger) and the flavor was so incredible,” he recalls. “It had a nice spice level and it had the acidity that we need to help balance out the sweetness of the honey so we are really excited about that.” Orchid has made the mead in the past with some ginger from a Pennsylvania farm. “We liked it but we really felt like we could do it
Fish Pepper Seedling better,” he said. “Once we found there is a farm nearby where we can literally rip it out of the ground and see it completely (unaltered) we were really excited about that. We have been doing little tastings ourselves between employees and it is probably the mead we are most excited about this year.” The company also makes a dry and sweet cyser which is a type of mead flavored with apples. They get their cider from Distillery Lane
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Sally Herber Ciderworks in Jefferson. “They have fantastic heirloom cider apples and a press that is almost the size of a car,” Kennedy says. “They press (the apples) and bring (the cider) over to us in early winter. It is usually still warm from the friction of the press. That is how fresh we get our cider.” Tenth Ward Distilling Company commissioned Orchid Cellar to make 275 gallons of mead for them for a drink they call Honey Jack.
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“There is no term for what distilled mead is so we called it Honey Jack and we have that aging in a barrel right now,” says Monica Pearce, owner. She and business partner Kyle Pfalzer released the first batch of the mead Fourth of July weekend—the company’s one year anniversary. “We will hope that it does well,” Pearce says. “It tastes pretty good so far.” Mead can be a challenge to make and honey can be difficult to ferment so Pfalzer felt more comfortable asking the folks at Orchid Cellar to make the drink for them. “They know what they are doing,” he says. “They incorporate locality in their business and it seemed like a good fit for us.” Pearce comes from an environmental sustainability background and has a passion for sourcing items locally to reduce the environmental impact and help build up a community which supports local businesses. Pfalzer says using nearby products give their products local character. “All the products that we make we always set out to make with local ingredients,” he says. The Downtown Frederick-based business also uses cider made by McCutcheon’s for their Apple Jack drink which is 100 proof apple brandy, and four of their seasonal liqueurs. Apple brandy is the base. Two are not named yet but two
others named for the colors of the spirits are available—Citrine, a spring liqueur and Cerist, a winter liqueur. “There isn’t one orchard that could completely be able to fulfill their production needs and because they source from local orchards, each batch is different depending on what needs to be picked,” Pearce says. “Each batch of our apple brandy is going to taste a little bit different based on the variety of apples the cider was made from and that is kind of fun for us.” Rob McCutcheon of McCutcheon’s loves that a product from his company is used to create a local product. “It is nice to see a new company really gaining some traction with the quality of the product they are producing and it is nice to see they can produce a good quality product from our apple cider that we press for them,” he says. McCutcheon’s gets some apples locally from Pryor's Orchard and Catoctin Mountain Orchard, both in Thurmont with the remaining coming from Pennsylvania and New York. Working with other local companies is important to the Downtown Frederick-based business. “It creates a good community,” McCutcheon says. “It strengthens the bonds between businesses. If you can work together, you can raise the bar for everyone. If you win, they win and everybody rises as a result.”
Shadows of Catoctin Farm
BURKITTSVILLE TOUTED AS “THE NAPA VALLEY OF MARYLAND”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BOORDY VINEYARDS
When Rob Deford needed additional grapes to supplement the fruit at his vineyard in Hydes— located north of Baltimore—he found what he was looking for in Burkittsville, a place he likens to the world-famous Napa Valley in California. “It’s a remarkable site; Napa Valley should be jealous,” says Deford of Boordy Vineyards, which started on a portion of his family’s farm in 1965 and has grown into an operation that has won international awards for wine that’s stocked in 840 shops. The business is well into its 50-year lease of 30 acres in Frederick County near the spot known locally as “Spook Hill,” because of the reported presence of ghosts from the Civil War. Deford calls the property South Mountain Vineyard. It’s a place that’s special to him, starting with the intense effort of getting the existing vineyard into shape. He and his employees “moved into a house trailer and did nothing but prune,” only later to be forced into “re-planting every vine and then some” when it was discovered the previous grower had used pesticides.
Harvesting grapes.
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The land has “soil that’s very poor, and that’s great” because the vine “focuses on the fruit and not the foliage,” Deford says.
Weather conditions and the lay of the land—there’s a southeast aspect to the vineyard—are also optimal, making for a growing season that in the early spring isn’t prone to frost damage. At the other end there’s at least two weeks of warmth that suits grapes needing more time to reach perfect ripeness before being harvested. “We’re getting about a month more” to the season, Deford says. Boordy Vineyard’s website speaks of the importance of being tied to what’s under your feet, whether it’s a family farm or land that you lease. “Winemaking, like most farming, stems from a love and respect for the land,” the post says. Generations have spent days “walking its hills and valleys, fishing its streams, harvesting crops and tending livestock, imprinting a sense of place in our souls.”
CITY GARDENS YOUNGSTERS GET THEIR HANDS INTO THE SOIL After a stretch of cool, rainy days, the sun finally shone and kids and adults at Carver Apartments, part of the Frederick Housing Authority, were able to get into their garden plots. Hoes and shovels came out of the shed and kids called for assistance to identify weeds from legitimate vegetables before tugging anything from the ground. Mia Campbell, 8, had her own theory about identifying weeds. “When we plant something we put in a label to know what it is. If it grows where there’s no label, it’s a weed,” she said. Natasha Bowens Blair, Healthy Families Coordinator for the housing authority, was busy showing youngsters how deep to sink tomato plants, first putting an egg into the hole as a way to give the fledgling plant an extra surge of nourishment. “Remember, before putting the plant into the ground you need to tickle the roots,” she said. “It tells the plant you can stretch out now.” The community has had gardens for several years but two years ago, when Blair joined the staff, a youth garden club was formed to
26
Young gardeners at Carver Apartments.
draw youngsters into the joys and rewards of gardening. Kids see how their food starts with small seeds or seedlings, are cared for along the way, harvested and finally end up on their plates. The process encourages them to try vegetables they might otherwise shun as well as giving a reason to be outdoors and moving. “When we first started and I would ask where their food comes from the first answer tended to be the grocery store,” Blair said. There’s even a business lesson to be had with the gardens. Last summer the kids took excess produce and sold it with the group deciding what to do with the money—something also planned for this season. Vegetables were also given away, teaching kids about being good citizens.
The garden club meets year round. “In the winter we obviously do indoor activities,” Blair said. “We do soil experiments; go to the library to research the plants we want to grow and have field trips” such as one where they walked around the city and identified the types of trees. Crafts are also done with a garden theme and “we cook and eat a lot.” The eight to 10 plots at Carver Apartments are used by more than the young residents. There’s also a plot where students from Lincoln Elementary, just across the street, try their hands in the soil. A church group and adults in the community also have turned into urban farmers and Blair said some of the housing authority staff “wants to garden this year.” Across town at Lucas Village there are 16 plots utilized by families living there, with rows of squash, strawberries, corn, herbs, melons and other crops being tended.
BEE POWER
PHOTOS COURTESY DICK BITTNER
GROWERS AND BEEKEEPERS FORM A BOND There’s a reason for the expression “busy as a bee,” especially when you consider the job they do pollinating the flowers that eventually turn into fruits and vegetables. The process also creates a relationship between growers and beekeepers. Rich Calimer of Scenic View Orchards, 16239 Sabillasville Road, Sabillasville, says 32 hives of honeybees are brought to his farm in mid to late March so the insects can flit among the plum, apricot, peach, nectarine and apple trees that are in bloom throughout the orchard. “Before coming here they were in California,” Calimer says, shipped to the West Coast in trucks with a consistently low temperature to keep them dormant. Once in California they get to work pollinating almond and pecan trees until returning to Frederick County. Although some crops are able to self-pollinate, bees are the most reliable and economical options for pollination, according to officials from the agricultural extension service. Pollination is necessary to produce seeds that are in turn surrounded by fruit. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that insects, mainly bees, contribute some $3 billion of economic value to the nation every year.
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Otherwise growers would be forced into laborious and costly pollination by hand. “Honey bees do most of the work, plus we get to have honey,” Calimer says, adding that in addition to his orchards, the bees are also beneficial pollinating his crops of cucumbers and squash. At Fox Haven Organic Farm and Learning Center in Jefferson, farm manager Dick Bittner says the pollination process that accompanies a bee’s search for nectar “is quite a process and interesting to watch if you have the time and don’t get too close.” He says the farm has hives brought in during the growing season and removed during the winter. “I just finished planting another acre” of flowers, he says earlier this spring, which will add to the banquet of clover, vegetable plants and other vegetation. There are plans to add plum and apple trees to the landscape, he says, “and then we will really be depending on the bees.”
FESTIVAL IS A LEARNING TOOL TO UNDERSTANDING THE FOOD CHAIN Although residents of Frederick County are surrounded by farmland and livestock, some consumers aren’t aware of exactly where and how their food comes to the table. At breakfast they may crack an egg into a skillet, for instance, but do they think about what a chicken eats in order to produce that egg? Or how about green beans—where were they before being canned or frozen? As a way to further educate the public on the ins-and-outs of agriculture, the Frederick County Office of Economic Development is again sponsoring the annual Family Festival @ the Farm on Oct. 21 and 22. “Family Festival @ the Farm is an important event for both farmers and families,” says Katie Albaugh, agriculture business development specialist for the Office of Economic Development. “It allows farmers the opportunity to spotlight their farm activities as well as promoting agriculture to the consumer. “Families can join in the fun by visiting a wide spectrum of agriculture operations from pumpkin patches, alpaca farmers and creameries, to pick-your-own operations,” Albaugh says. “Several farms are really stepping up the activities they are offering to the public for this weekend.”
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There are self-guided farm tours as well as hay rides with the farmer onboard explaining the operation. Corn mazes add some fun and some places provide lessons on identifying flowers, how milk is turned into ice cream and the proper way to milk a goat. “We receive great feedback every year about this event,” Albaugh says. “It’s a once-a-year opportunity to get out to the farm and experience what farmers do every day. For many farms this is the only weekend that they’re completely open to the public and we hope that the public takes advantage of this opportunity.” Albaugh says there are exciting plans to make improvements to the event next year, renaming it Homegrown Hay Days and adding even more places to visit around the county. For more information, visit www.homegrownfrederick.com/family-festival.
FAMILY FESTIVAL @ THE FARM
Adams County, PA
LOCATION MAP C ll rro Ca
oun ty
ou nty
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PARTICIPATING FARMS 1. Brookfield Pumpkins 2. Catoctin Breeze Vineyard 3. Catoctin Mountain Orchard 4. Distillery Lane Ciderworks 5. Gaver Farm 6. Glade Link Farms 7. Jumbo’s Pumpkin Patch 8. Linganore Winecellars 9. Mayne’s Tree Farm 10. Orchid Cellars Meadery & Winery
11. Rocky Point Creamery 12. Scenic View Orchards 13. Summers Farm 14. Sycamore Spring Farm 15. Thanksgiving Farm 16. Whispering Meadows Alpaca Breeders
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SPROUTING SALES CREAGERSTOWN COMPANY EMBRACES HYDROPONICS By Gina Gallucci-White
Christopher Yu believes the biggest problem with sprouts is people not knowing what to do with them. As the founder and owner of the Potomac Sprout Company, he likes to explore and play with sprout recipes in his kitchen “so I can help answer that question for people.” His favorite snack is a slice of pumpernickel with cream cheese and radish sprouts. He also makes spring rolls by combining a mix of sprouts, sautéed mushrooms and carrots, bundling them in a rice wrapper. “It is a very light, healthy and refreshing dish,” he says. Instead of a pico de gallo, he makes brocco de gallo using broccoli sprouts.
CHRISTOPHER AND WESLEY YU
He also takes a slice of smoked salmon, some alfalfa sprouts, then rolls it up and sprinkles on salt. “Any late night snack you can cut the guilt by 5 percent if you just throw some sprouts on it,” he says. Some of the recipes end up on his company's website. Some he tells to customers. Yet he always knows the sprouts he uses in his recipes are fresh because he grows them hydroponically at his Creagerstownbased 10,000square-foot remodeled horse arena.
On a recent early spring morning, organic broccoli, daikon radish and alfalfa sprouts grew safely inside one of three Emerald HD 3200 purifier sprouter machines. The company produces both conventional and organic sprouts such as German and Siberian dwarf kale, clover and China red radish. Yu had the idea to start the company after reading an article discussing how foodborne illnesses can occur with improperly raised sprouts. With a background in food science, he designed and built his own water recycling system to make sure the water quality used is very pure. “If I can do my part to provide a safe quality product, maybe popularity of a deserving product will rise up again,” Yu says. He chose the name Potomac Sprout because he believes the name means ‘local’ and ‘high quality’ to our area.
The product starts at the seed level— kept in a room temperature section of the building. Organic seeds are on one side with conventional seeds on the other to avoid cross contamination. The next area, the red room, is kept at a warm 70 degrees bringing the sprouts to life. The Emeralds have quadrants that may be filled with up to 25 pounds of seeds. Through a four- to five-day process, the seeds are rotated, given artificial light and irrigated. “The traditional method does use trays,” says Wesley Yu, the company's operations and business manager. “We find that this method helps keep hands off better. We feel when people are interacting with the product more, there’s definitely more chance for contamination.” The next two areas are kept at a chilly 35 degrees and are used for packing and storage. “As soon as we take the sprouts out of the machine, they are a living plant,” Wesley Yu says. “They will continue to sprout and grow and change color. We want to stop that process immediately.” The sprouts are dried and put in a centrifuge spinner—sort of like your
salad spinner at home. Once dry, they are packaged and placed in another room to await delivery to one of many local vendors such as The Common Market, Maryland locations for Mom's Organic Market and Roots Market in Olney and Clarksville. They do two shipments a week for wholesale and retail. A shipment can be put together in a day. "It's not just sitting there waiting for people," Wesley
factor in why we are out here” in Creagerstown, Wesley Yu says. The process from concept, design and installation took about a year. “You can’t design the system without making sure the plumbing can accommodate, without making sure the floor is sloped for proper drainage,” Christopher Yu says. "Everything had to be designed in tandem."
Yu says. “One business week in advance and we can get them everything they want.”
Since opening up in fall 2016, business has continued to sprout. “We are going to not just focus on sprouts hopefully, but branch out into trading and growing other kinds of local produce in the area. I think a local produce movement is very important and generally in Maryland we can grow really great stuff and a lot of what we get in the grocery store is from far away and that shouldn’t be the case.”
The biggest ingredient for their sprouts is the water system featuring a 10,000, 8,000 and 6,000 gallon tank and a cornucopia of softeners and filters. “Making sure we have a clean, reusable and sustainable water source was a big
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TEACHING AGRICULTURE TO THE NEXT GENERATION By Gina Gallucci-White
A new project agriculture students at the Frederick County Public Schools' Career and Technology Center embarked on this school year was tackling vertical gardening. The concept goes back to ancient civilizations and involves growing plants up and down on walls instead of on horizontal land. CTC took the garden tower to The Great Frederick Fair last year “just to give people an idea of ‘Hey! You don’t have to have a big plot of land to have a vegetable garden,’” says Diane Herndon, CTC agriculture teacher. In mid-March, the handmade tower was hosting strawberries and folks in the community could see the concept during an open house in late April. Vertical gardening is just one of many exciting agriculture projects FCPS educators have students working on while studying the art and science of the field. “I think Frederick County has the face of agriculture,” says Dr. Kristine Pearl, Career and Technology Education Supervisor. “It has changed significantly over the last decade and so there are many more career opportunities in agriculture beyond the traditional perception that people may have.” Agriculture programs in the comprehensive schools include three completers. Horticulture, found in nine of the 10 high schools, includes classes in floral culture and greenhouse management. Agriculture mechanics, hosted at four
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of the 10 schools, has classes in welding, forging and advanced mechanics. Pre-vet is set up in eight schools. “When you think of agriculture, there are so many different areas where you can focus,” Pearl says. “Our pre-vet is one of our very popular programs. It’s not just about raising animals on the farm—the traditional perception. These students are going into vet tech (careers). They are working in
veterinary clinics. There are plenty of opportunities at Fort Detrick for labs for students that are interested in being an animal technician. Then there are also students who are going into veterinarian medicine. We try to provide initial pathways for our students that have broad focuses and different types of agriculture...
“We are one of the smallest schools in the county so I think being able to offer all three completer programs is awesome because not every school in the county has that opportunity,” she says.
All of our programs are with the intent to provide a wide range of educational opportunities for students interested in all forms of agriculture.” Catoctin High School agriculture teacher Amy Jo Poffenberger teaches horticulture and animal science.
year, her students built a hydroponics system and grew lettuce. A couple of years ago, they installed a Dosatron system in their greenhouse to show what real world farmers use for irrigation and fertilization. “Trying to stay up to date on the current trends and using
Poffenberger incorporates new agriculture techniques into her curriculum. Over the past
technology that is being used in the real world is something that we try to do often in the courses as well,” Poffenberger says. The Catoctin feeder area has a strong agriculture background. FFA (formerly Future Farmers of American) and school agriculture classes are a family tradition. “We have a lot of kids that do it because their parents or their older siblings took these classes and liked it,” Poffenberger says. FFA takes what the students learn in the classroom and puts the knowledge to use in contests and leadership activities. The FFA at Catoctin can also be a way to travel. Last year, Poffenberger took 18 kids to Indianapolis for the National FFA convention. “FFA teaches leadership skills that are going last them a lifetime whether they go into an agriculture career or not —from public speaking to parliamentary procedure to how to conduct an interview. Things that can be used whether they become a doctor, lawyer, a nurse, someone working at a grocery store—it can be applied anywhere.” Herndon teaches three classes at CTC. Landscape design has students learning about
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plant materials; how to install them based on a design they create and maintain the area using proper equipment. Advanced floral design builds on the home high school’s program and has each student actively seeking clients for mainly weddings. They price out the event, design and deliver their creations. Ag business is a dual enrollment class in partnership with Frederick Community College. “It’s great for them to come in and get this business experience at that dual enrollment price and learn just a little bit more about starting their own business,” Herndon says. As a part of the Ag business program, CTC has honey bee hives the students learn to work and develop a business model around. Next school year, her students will be learning about and participating in aquaponics—a system where fish are feeding crops nutrients with their waste and the crops help to purify the water. “We were looking at businesses that were untapped markets in our area,” Herndon
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says. “...As a society we have gotten away from having those gardens at home. It is nice to see things drifting back to people wanting to know where their food is coming from and they want to be able to grow their own food.” The bees and aquaponics system are all part of a more than $13,000 grant from the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) from the Rural Maryland Council. As a part of the grant, CTC partnered with FCC to create a new class—Intro to Ag Business which high schoolers and college students may
take for credit. Herndon hopes to add a second level of Ag business at FCC within two years. “We are hopeful that will continue because we are Frederick County. We have a lot of students that go on to college in agriculture and it would be wonderful if they could get a greater head start with college level classes,” Pearl says. Agriculture is a constantly evolving field and Herndon enjoys giving the students new experiences every day. “Nobody has really worked with bees before,” she says. “... Just providing those students that opportunity to learn that there is something more out there and to learn a little bit more about agriculture because a lot of them are pretty far removed from the farm.”
"U Y A R M O N T H E& When you buy directly from farmers, you get fresh, healthy produce, keep your food dollars close to home, and support a local farm family.
HOMEGROWN FREDERICK, a service of the Office of Economic Development, serves farmers and citizens by promoting local agriculture and business in order to preserve the rich heritage of our County. Search for local events, creameries, craft beverages, products and more.
Visit www.HomegrownFrederick.com. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
CHANGING CAREERS FARMING BECOMES A NEW WAY OF LIFE At age 82, Dick Bittner is satisfied with the life he leads, particularly the career path that took him from the bio-medical engineering field to real estate and, since 1987, as farm manager at Fox Haven Organic Farm & Learning Center on Poffenberger Road in Jefferson. Shedding a previous career in exchange for the farming life isn’t new—baby boomers may recall the TV sit-com Green Acres, where New York attorney Oliver Douglas swapped the board room for a tractor in the field, all the while keeping his three-piece suit. What Bittner does isn’t comedy, but there is fun in the midst of the hard work, he admits. “All my careers have had some good and some bad,” says the Sabillasville native who earned two engineering degrees at night while working a day job and later came into farming while selling farm land as a Realtor. What he appreciates about farming is that “it gives you the freedom to investigate new ideas.” This is certainly the case at Fox Haven, which is owned by Harriett Crosby of Cabin John. The farm places an emphasis on conservation practices that are designed to improve healthy soils and water quality in the Catoctin Creek watershed. “We just added 200 acres of trees and shrubs” along the creek, Bittner says. Fox Haven is also into promoting education with visits to the farm encouraged for the public along with scheduled field days. A pet project of Bittner’s is
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demonstrating that farmers “can grow hay without pesticides and make money.” His fields are organic and “we want to influence other farmers…The healthier we get the soil, the healthier the plants with fewer insects and fewer weeds.” The farm has two acres devoted to a vegetable garden and 50 acres are leased to another farmer who is practicing rotational grazing of young heifers on the land, joined by a few foraging pigs. “They root in the soil so it becomes healthier.” Bittner says the farm has become a haven for all types of wildlife and he enjoys taking his camera out and documenting it. “If I have a fourth career it might just be photography,” he says with a laugh.
BETTY CLICKER PHOTOGRAPHY
FREDERICK COUNTY 4-H BEEF, SHEEP & SWINE SALE
Thursday, September 21st, 2017 Time: 5:30pm THE GREAT FREDERICK FAIR BEEF SHOW RING, BUILDING 18
• Sale Order: Swine then Alternating Beef and Sheep through remainder of the sale •
Registration Procedure: Registration begins at 4:30pm at the Beef Show Ring. You will need to provide name, address, phone number, and drivers license. You will then receive a buyers number. This card needs to be provided to the auctioneer when a purchase is made. The auction begins at 5:30pm
FINDING IT ALL ON THE FARM PROVES POSSIBLE Farming continues to play an important part in the local economy with 65 percent of the land zoned for agriculture. Increasingly, consumers are seeking fresh, locallyproduced food and other products and Frederick County farmers and growers are meeting the demand—whether it’s raising alpacas, beef cattle and heirloom vegetables, or inviting you to pick-yourown fruits and vegetables and enjoy a corn maze and hay ride. THE FOLLOWING ICONS DESIGNATE SPECIAL FARM FEATURES. Pick-YourOwn
Family Festival @ the Farm
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ALLEN’S APIARY 9980 Harvest Drive, Frederick 240.409.3589 • 240.793.5532 www.allensapiary.com Allen's Apiary is a great source for fresh, local honey, 100 percent beeswax candles and homemade honey oatmeal soaps. Stop by to pick up your honey or visit them at one of the local farmers markets.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT The apiary has more than 100 hives spread throughout Frederick County and is producing honey for a few local restaurants.
BIG WHITE BARN PRODUCE 6601 Manor Woods Road, Frederick 301.874.3173 • www.bigwhitebarn.com The nearly 200-acre historic farm, located in Buckeystown, has been offering CSAs for the past nine years. Farmer Steve offers the expected staples in your CSA share. However, you will also find heirloom tomatoes, kohlrabi, leeks and pak choi. The farm features an herb and fresh flower cutting garden open to the public on Saturdays during the summer months.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT A partnership with the Greater Urbana Area foodbank ensures that overrun produce from each CSA will be donated to the hungry in our local community. Cut your own weekly bouquet from the flower garden by appointment. Brides and bridal parties welcome.
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BLACK ANKLE VINEYARDS 14463 Black Ankle Road, Mount Airy 301.829.3338 • www.blackankle.com At Black Ankle Vineyards they believe that a prime vineyard site marked by rolling hillsides and rocky soils, combined with meticulous care of their vines and land will yield grapes that make wines of depth, nuance and character. Wine Tastings, Tours (Saturday & Sunday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., weather permitting), Cozy indoor/outdoor seating, Polish pottery and other merchandise, Entertainment/events, groups welcome, private event rentals. Refer to website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT All wines are sold at the farm and online. In addition, a cheese plate featuring an assortment of locally-produced cheese is available.
BROOKFIELD PUMPKINS, LLC 8302 Ramsburg Road, Thurmont 301.898.3527 • www.brookfieldpumpkins.com Brookfield Pumpkins is a pick-your-own pumpkin patch located on a six-generation cash crop farm with a view of the Catoctin Mountains. Three generations of the Ramsburg and Roop families are active in running it. Many customers start their visit with a hayride out to the 10-acre patch, returning to participate in the numerous activities around the barn. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Hay ride, petting zoo, corn fun (table filled with shell corn and miniature farm equipment), face painting ($), (weekends only), Molly Moo (life size cow replica that can actually be milked), Corn Maze for a cause ($).
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CATOCTIN BREEZE VINEYARD 15010 Roddy Road, Thurmont 240.449.0677 • www.catoctinbreeze.com Catoctin Breeze is a boutique vineyard and winery operation producing small lots of fine quality Maryland wines. The winery offers a range of varietal and blended wines, as well as a selection of honey wines known as mead. From thoughtful attention to the vines, careful selection of fruit, and gentle winemaking methods, their commitment to producing the finest quality wines is reflected in each bottle. Catoctin Breeze offers both general and private tastings.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Live music is hosted every weekend, spring through fall, a perfect time to unwind and enjoy a beautiful day with wine, family and friends. Visit www.catoctinbreeze.com/events for more information.
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CATOCTIN CREEK FARM 4939 Broad Run Road, Jefferson 301.834.6427 • www.catoctincreekfarm.com Catoctin Creek Farm raises award-winning Romney sheep. A new solar array has been established to make the farm carbon neutral. They are an example of sustainable agriculture— a small ag business concerned most with maintaining high environmental standards. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Their Romney wool is highly prized by hand spinners. They also make wool products including blankets, roving, historic throws, yarn, socks and various other wool crafts.
CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARD 15036 N. Franklinville Road, Thurmont 301.271.2737•www.catoctinmountainorchard.com Catoctin Mountain Orchard is a fourth generation fruit, vegetable, and berry farm celebrating more than 55 years in business. One hundred-plus acres produce products sold at the retail market on the farm. Pick-your-own crops and flowers are available. Call or visit the website for days and hours at their retail farm market.
CELEBRATION FARM 9961 Green Valley Road, Union Bridge 443.745.0207 • www.celebration-farm.com Celebration Farm is a boarding and training center featuring lessons in dressage and hunter seat. Lessons and some sale horses are available. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Products also include plums, peaches, nectarines, apricots, apples, pears, grapes, kiwiberries, blackberries, sweet cherries, black raspberries, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, peppers, cabbage, kale, fruit pies, cookies, crumb cakes, apple butter, cider, honeycrisp apple sauce and local honey. Supplies the school lunch program with peaches, apples, pears and plums.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Dressage Show Series, equine boarding and training, Daily Dose Equine LLC non-GMO horse feed.
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CLEMSONVILLE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 10120 Clemsonville Road, Union Bridge 410.848.6083 • www.clemsonville.com At Clemsonville’s 250-acre Christmas Tree Farm you can cut or dig trees—fir, pine and spruce—plus get wreaths, swags and tree stands. All trees are $20. The farm dates back to 1775 and has a historic mansion copied from George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon. The farm is the home of Guinness Record-breaking wreaths.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT A Christmas tradition for over 50 years. Visit the Christmas Barn, explore the nature maze, see Boulder GardenChristmas Wonderland and Picnic Park. Open daily after Thanksgiving until Christmas, 10am to 5pm. Fresh-cut trees and greenery and cut-your-own firewood. Free punch and cookies.
COOLING SPRINGS FARM 2455 Ballenger Creek Pike, Adamstown 301.874.0235 • www.coolingsprings.org Cooling Springs Farm has been operated by seven generations of the same family since Andrew and Barbara Michael founded the farm in 1768, making Cooling Springs Farm one of the county’s oldest farms owned by the same family. Passed-down oral tradition tells of the family using the farm to shelter Underground Railroad freedom seekers in the 1800s. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Cooling Springs Farm has been open to the public since 2004 as an Underground Railroad historic site. Come and hear the history and the farm’s involvement on a free tour. The farm is powered entirely by sun and wind.
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DISTILLERY LANE CIDERWORKS 5533 Gapland Road, Jefferson 301.834.8920 • www.distillerylaneciderworks.com Distillery Lane Ciderworks, located just outside of historic Burkittsville, specializes in growing a wide variety of apples perfect for cider, baking and eating. The family-owned and operated farm and cidery offers unique apple varieties, sweet cider and hard cider. Their heritage apples are prized by apple lovers, bakers, and home brewers for their exquisite taste. Open year-round, Saturdays and Sundays noon – 5 p.m. Check the website in the fall for extended hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Hard and fresh cider featured on this heritage apple farm.
E&E TREES INC. 9420 Dublin Road, Walkersville 301.829.0394 • www.eandetrees.com This cut or pick-your-own Christmas tree farm has been in business since 1976. The company name stands for Ecology and Environment which was so important at that time and even more so now. They have been a family-owned and run business since that time. The farm is located on 100 acres with many evergreen trees to choose from: White Pine up to 14-feet, Norway spruce up to 12-feet, Douglas fir to 12-feet and smaller sizes of Blue Spruce, Concolor Fir, Canaan Fir and Serbian Spruce. They also have balled and burlapped live trees for those who want to plant their tree. Pre-cut trees available along with wreaths made on the farm, holly and roping. Saws are available.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT E & E Trees, Inc. is a member of the Maryland Forest Association, the Maryland Nursery, Landscape and Greenhouse Association, The Maryland Farm Bureau and Maryland Christmas Tree Association. 49
EBERLE CHRISTMAS FARM 13415 Liberty Road, Union Bridge 301.898.4232 • www.eberlechristmasfarm.com They are a family-owned and operated Christmas tree farm located on 40 rolling acres with Civil War-era buildings. They offer a great variety of tree species ranging from 4 to more than 12 feet for u-cut. Fresh-cut trees range from 6 to 11 feet and are kept in water for you. Open the day after Thanksgiving from 9 a.m. until dark six days a week. Closed Tuesdays.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT A full service farm with a wide variety of trees and accessories. Hand-made wreaths of all shapes and sizes by on-site artist. Shaking and baling included.
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ELK RUN VINEYARDS 15113 Liberty Road, Mount Airy 410.775.2513 • www.elkrun.com Planted in 1980 Elk Run pioneered the first all Vinifera vineyard in Maryland; harvesting 25 acres. Focus continues on classic varietals, offering classes to the public and industry members for the last 30 years on successful planting and sustainable practices. The winner of over 650 national and international awards and was featured on Netflix House of Cards. The winery has been instrumental in developing the Md. Grapes Growers Assoc., MD Winery Assoc., The Governors Wine Grape Advisory Board and Frederick Wine Trail. Open for tasting year round; listen to local musicians. Gift shop features local artisans.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Practicing classic old world wine making techniques using both French and American oak barrels, Elk Run also uses the latest industry advancements. Producers of five classic red and four classic white varietals, sparkling wine, ice wine and port.
ENGLAND ACRES
FLYING GOAT FARM
5620 Detrick Road, Mount Airy Market Sales: 240.674.2028 Hay and Field Products: 240.674.2030 www.englandacres.com
5241 Bartonsville Road, Frederick 443.538.8303 • www.flyinggoatfarm.com
England Acres Family Farm raises pasture raised/grass finished Angus beef and lamb, pasture raised chickens, eggs from pastured hens, seasonal available. Freezer ready beef by the cut, 30# sampler, split side and by the side (cut to customer specifications). Lamb by the side. The on-farm market is open the first Saturday of the month from March through September, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; or by appointment. Contact Jeff at 240.674.2030 to inquire about the variety of baled hay and straw available throughout the year depending on supply.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Visit at lambing time, watch chicks grow to maturity, frequent the gardens as the produce ripens, help to plant potatoes in April and dig them in August, press apples into cider, all to learn the benefits of eating with the seasons.
The owners have 25 acres that they farm in an organic and sustainable way, with fruit, berry and nut trees, free-range chickens, guinea fowl, Angora goats, cormo and BFL sheep. They sell organic eggs, jams and pickles at the farm or at local farmers markets. As their orchard matures they will also offer fruit, berries and nuts. They sell mohair locks, fleeces, roving and yarn and hand-dyed commercial quilting fabric and yarns. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They offer spinning, dyeing and weaving workshops and have occasional farming specialty classes such as pruning and animal husbandry as well.
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FLYING PIGS FARM 9233 Bessie Clemson Road, Union Bridge 301.898.8956 • www.flyingpigsorganic.com They offer certified organic blueberries, raspberries and jams. The farm consists of 25 acres of beautiful countryside where the owners, Paul, Pam and Emma Burke, have lived since 2002. Viewing their role as caretakers of this land, they have worked to protect it and enhance its productivity. They have corrected erosion problems, planted more than 700 trees and several pollinator strips, improved the fertility and organic matter of the soil, protected water resources on and around the property and worked to reduce invasive species— all while growing fruits and vegetables that are delicious and nutritious.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT The operation is certified organic.
FOX HAVEN ORGANIC FARM & LEARNING CENTER 3630 Poffenberger Road, Jefferson 301.748.2427 • 240.490.5484 • www.foxhavenfarm.org Features certified organic hay and vegetable production and sales. They are developing and using innovative conservation practices and research programs, used to enhance organic methods for improving healthy food production and for building healthy soils. Workshops and seminars are held to encourage those who visit the Learning Center to eat and to grow healthy foods and to improve the health of their soil.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT The Learning Center is available for your seminars, workshops and group meetings. "Farm Stay" rentals are available to house groups. Weekend or week-long stays are available. 52
FRANZ TREE FARM 12056 Fingerboard Road, Monrovia 301.865.1798 • 301.717.8449 franztreefarm@gmail.com Franz Tree farm is 144 acres of beautiful countryside with 35 acres in Christmas trees. The remaining acreage is made up of woodlands and hay fields. Choose and cut your own tree (saws are available). Call or email for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Scotch and white pines, Norway spruce and Colorado blue spruce are available.
FULL CELLAR FARM 3901 Lander Road, Jefferson 301.639.9711 • www.fullcellarfarm.com They grow fresh vegetables, herbs, cut flowers and pastured poultry, pork and eggs on the scenic westward slopes of the Middletown Valley. Though not certified organic, they aim to grow the prettiest and tastiest food for the local community in a way that leaves the farm healthy and productive for future generations. You can find them at area farmers markets, CSAs and local food hubs.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Talk to Kip about the winter CSA and "A la carte" delivery programs to get seasonal vegetables, meats and eggs from November through April.
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GAVER FARM, LLC 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy 301.865.3515 • www.gaverfarm.com Gaver Farm features a farm market with pumpkins, apples, fall produce, cider, decor and free hayrides to pick-your-own pumpkins and apples. Enjoy the Fall Fun Festival complete with farm animals, corn maze, straw activities, jumping pillow and over 45 family-friendly activities. For over 30 years Gaver Farm has provided cut-your-own and fresh-cut Christmas trees and wreaths, roping, swags and fresh greenery in the farm market. Visit the Barn Bakery and Grill open during the fall and Christmas seasons.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Gaver Farm is a family-owned and operated working farm growing seasonal farm products from apples and pumpkins to mums, corn stalks, Christmas trees, fresh-baked pies, their famous apple cider donuts and family farm fun. 54
GLADE-LINK FARMS, LLC 12270 Woodsboro Pike, Keymar 301.898.7131 • www.gladelink.com Glade-Link Farms is family-owned and operated. For 40 years, it has provided customers with fruit, vegetables, cut flowers and fall decorations. Pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins and fall vegetables. Wedding and event design with homegrown cut flowers available. They participate in local farmers markets. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Acres of strawberries and blueberries are complimented by cauliflower, cabbage, collards, kale, green beans, turnips, pumpkins and fall decorations and cut flowers.
GOOD HOPE FARMSTEAD 10820 Renner Road, Woodsboro 240.367.9676 • www.goodhopefarmstead.com Good Hope Farmstead is a pasture-based family farm that offers 100 percent grass-fed beef, grass-finished lamb and mutton, free-range chicken, pastured pork, holiday turkey and duck eggs. Customized cuts available for whole and half lamb orders. This farm is within easy commuting distance to the Washington D.C. and Baltimore metro areas. Products are available for onfarm pick-up by appointment, at the Bowie Farmers Market (May-Nov) and the City of Rockville Farmers Market (May-Nov).
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Pasture-raised: Beef, lamb, mutton, pork, chicken, turkey and duck eggs. This farm is dedicated to keeping the well-being of the animals and the quality of the land at the forefront of its farm planning.
GRINDSTONE RIDGE FARM 2710A Monument Road, Myersville 301.908.5985 • www.grindstoneridgefarm.com Award-winning sheep, angora goats and alpacas make delightful yarns and wool rovings for spinning. They specialize in handdyed yarns for knitting and wool for needlefelting. Their own needlefelting kits and figures, Santas, bunnies and lambs are also sold at the farm. Dates for needlefelting classes appear on their website. Visitors welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Hand-dyed yarn, wool rovings, dryer balls, free-range chicken and duck eggs, pysanky egg ornaments, handmade natural soaps, jams, jellies and hot sauces from their garden.
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HARA-VALE FARM 4309 Cap Stine Road, Frederick 301.788.5409 • 301.471.5968 www.edscountrybakery.net Hara-Vale Farm has been a four-generation family dairy farm for more than 50 years and is transitioning from dairy farming to pasture-raised beef, hay and straw sales and livestock hauling. The farm is also home to Ed’s Country Bakery. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They offer baked goods, including wedding cakes, all natural pasture-raised and grain-finished beef sold by the quarter or half or in a variety of cuts and ground beef; hay and straw bales and livestock hauling.
HEDGEAPPLE FARM 3760 Buckeystown Pike, Buckeystown 301.662.0226 • www.hedgeapplefarm.com Hedgeapple Farm dates to 1731. Since 1956, the Jorgenson family has operated a dairy and a beef farm on the property. Since 1997, it has been a nonprofit research and educational foundation farm dedicated to improving and promoting grass-fed Angus beef. In 2006, the owners reconstructed a 1790s-era log cabin to serve as a market to sell the grass-fed and grass-finished beef raised here. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Individual cuts of beef are available and sold by the pound. Their beef is dry-aged and sold vac-sealed and flash frozen. They also offer a premium boxed assortment package, outstanding beef jerky and monthly beef specials. Beef is 100 percent grass-fed and grass-finished. No grain ever. Open three days per week all year-long.
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HIDDEN HILLS FARM AND VINEYARD 7550 Green Valley Road, Frederick 301.660.8735 • www.hiddenhillsfarmandvineyard.com Sharing the land with their beautiful horse farm, Hidden Hills Farm and Vineyard produces elegant, dry wines and has 12 of 103 acres in grape production. Come and visit Frederick’s first and only winery located on an equestrian facility in Frederick’s gorgeous horse country. Enjoy your wine and a picnic as you watch the horses play. Phone for a tasting appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They welcome you to be a part of Frederick County’s beautiful horse country as you learn more about local wine production; minutes away from historic Downtown Frederick.
HIDDEN HILLS HORSE FARM 7550 Green Valley Road, Frederick 301.305.5963 • www.hiddenhillshorsefarm.com Nestled in 103 spectacular acres in Frederick, Hidden Hills Horse Farm is one of the area’s most beautiful equine boarding facilities for the enjoyment of both horses and riders. They offer horse boarding in luxurious, well-equipped horse stables as well as year-round riding in the outdoor and indoor horse arenas and horse trails.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Shower and changing rooms are available for you and heated wash stalls with hot water for your equine companion. Your horse will thrive in our luxurious turnouts.
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HILLSIDE TURKEY FARMS 30 Elm Street, Thurmont 301.271.2728 • www.hillsideturkey.com Hillside Turkey Farms is a family-owned, third generation farm and retail store specializing in today's family needs. The main focus is further processing of poultry to make meals more fun and interesting. They carry many fresh poultry products, deli items and some prepared foods. Hillside Turkey Farms is a USDA inspected plant serving the public with a retail store and in many local restaurants. Call or visit the website for store hours and more information. Don't forget to order your fresh turkey or turkey breast for the holidays!
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Fresh turkeys and breasts, turkey sausage, ground turkey, soups, turkey jerky, turkey snack sticks, fresh chicken, deli-sliced roast beef and country ham, pork bacon, smoked turkeys and breasts, cheeses, turkey pot pies and other products. 58
HOUSE IN THE WOODS FARM 2225 Park Mills Road, Adamstown 301.607.4048 • www.houseinthewoods.com House in the Woods Farm is a certified organic diverse farm near Sugarloaf Mountain. They offer a 20-week CSA, featuring heirloom vegetable varieties and heirloom tomatoes. In May, they sell seedlings to home gardeners, featuring many varieties of heirloom tomato plants. They have been in operation since 2000. Visitors welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT It’s the mission to get people involved during Farm Hands Days, lending a hand to plant, tend and harvest the crops. Produce available for sale at the farm by appointment. Educational tours and harvest events.
J BAR W RANCH
JT&R EXOTIC MEATS
10530 Green Valley Road, Union Bridge www.jbarwranch.com
6300 Old Middletown Road, Middletown 240.674.7656 • www.facebook.com/jtrmeats
This father, son and daughter partnership has received recognition nationwide for producing and hosting pro-bull riding. The ranch has been credited for professionalism displayed at their Battle of the Beast. They maintain more than 750 head of Generation of Genetics Bucking Livestock. Call or visit the website for hours and event dates.
JT&R Exotic meats is settled in the heart of the Middletown Valley, where the owner grew up as a third generation dairy farmer. As the years passed, he realized that he wanted to branch out and pursue raising alternative livestock. Now, several years later, the owners are proud to offer an unprecedented line of exquisite meats from their pure-bred herds/flocks of Water Buffalo, Wild Boar, Short Haired Big Horn Sheep, and Boer/Ibex Goats. Their animals are all naturally raised on crops produced on their farm. Contact them to set up your home delivery.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Battle of the Beast event, pro-bull riding, cowgirl barrel racing, mutton bustin’, face painting, food, souvenirs, including T-shirts, cowboy hats, etc.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Farm-raised Water Buffalo, Wild Boar, short haired Big Horn Sheep and Boer/Ibex Goats.
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JUMBO’S PUMPKIN PATCH, LLC 6521 Holter Road, Middletown 301.371.6874 • www.jumbos.org Jumbo's Pumpkin Patch, LLC is a part of Homestead Farms, owned by the Huffer family. Homestead was purchased in 1870 and has now been home to seven generations. Pick your pumpkins from the 30acre patch and find your way through a 15-acre corn maze. Hayrides, fall shopping, yummy food, activities for children and fun for the whole family.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Visit the Craft Attic to shop for handmade items from over 50 local vendors, enjoy a fresh-squeezed lemonade and funnel cake at the Snack Shack and marvel at the gorgeous selection of farm-grown chrysanthemums.
LILYPONS WATER GARDENS 6800 Lily Pons Road, Adamstown 1.800.999.5459 • www.lilypons.com Lilypons is an aquatic plant farm that was started in1917. In addition to harvesting and selling aquatic plants, they offer a full line of water gardening products such as liners, pumps, filters and fish. The farm is located along the scenic Monocacy River and is a destination for nature lovers. Visit the website for hours and events.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Aquatic plants, fish, pumps, filters, gift items, birding products, heaters for ponds, nets and more.
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LINGANORE WINECELLARS 13601 Glissans Mill Road, Mount Airy 301.831.5889 • 410.795.6432 www.linganorewines.com Linganore Wine Cellars is the oldest family-run vineyard on the Maryland Wine Trail. The Aellen family first opened Linganore in 1976 and it currently boasts 86 acres of active vineyards. The Aellen family produces more than 30 varieties of wine, ranging from elegantly dry white and red dinner wines to luscious semi-sweet varietals, fruit and dessert wines.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Celebrating over 40 years, Linganore offers it all—wine tasting, tours, festivals, and hosts private events. Open seven days a week, 361 days a year. Come and join the family adventure.
LOEW VINEYARDS 14001 Liberty Road, Mount Airy 301.831.5464 • www.loewvineyards.net The history of winemaking in the Loew family dates back to the mid-19th century in Eastern Europe. To renew that tradition, Bill and Lois Loew put down roots (literally) in Frederick County. They planted their first grapevines in 1982, and since that time, have focused on producing a diverse selection of fine handcrafted wines. They take great pleasure in sharing their love of wine with visitors to the winery.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Wine tasting, winery and vineyard tours and picnic grounds. Several varieties of wine, from traditionally crafted dry white and dry red selections to unique semisweet and sweet wines. Wine-related crafts and gifts also are available.
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MAD SCIENCE BREWING COMPANY AT THANKSGIVING FARM
MAYNE’S TREE FARM
1619 Buckeystown Pike, Adamstown 240.409.8723 • www.madsciencebrewing.com
This is a full-service farm offering everything from asparagus and pick-your-own strawberries in the spring and sweet corn all summer long to a hayride to the pumpkin patch in the fall. In December is the opportunity to come cut your own Christmas tree and to visit the wreath barn. Call or visit facebook for hours.
Mad Science Brewing Company is located at Thanksgiving Farms & Garden Center just south of Frederick on Md. 85 (Buckeystown Pike). Mad Science Brewing is open to the public for retail sales on Saturdays and Sundays from April to Christmas. Their emphasis is on high-quality, hand-crafted beer using their own homegrown hops, fruits, and vegetables that are available throughout the growing season at Thanksgiving Farms.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Mad Science Brewing Company offers a communitysupported brewery (CSB) program, which allows members to have access to special events, discounts and unique single-batch beers.
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3420 Buckeystown Pike, Buckeystown 301.662.4320 • www.maynestreefarm.com
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Hayrides to the pumpkin patch, pick-your-own fruits, vegetables and pumpkins, cut-your-own Christmas tree. Pumpkin barn set up for group and bus tours and gatherings.
MAZZAROTH VINEYARD 8333 Myersville Road, Middletown 301.639.0303 • www.mazzarothvineyard.com Mazzaroth Vineyard is a family-owned and operated boutique winery in the Middletown Valley. Achieving a goal of crafting premium Maryland wines requires them to maintain a relentless focus in the vineyard and winery, combined with a respect for nature. They currently grow five varieties well-suited for the region. They enjoy sharing a passion for grape-growing and wine-making. Guests welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They are proud to be a glyphosate-free vineyard. Eliminating this herbicide allows them to cultivate a managed cover crop that moderates soil temperatures and produces more flavorful wines.
MILKHOUSE BREWERY AT STILLPOINT FARM 8253 Dollyhyde Road, Mount Airy 301.829.6950 • www.milkhousebrewery.com This is Maryland's first farm brewery, specializing in classic styles of beer “improved with Maryland hops.” They currently grow two types of hops on their 47-acre farm. The brewery produces five year-round beers and rotates a couple of seasonal releases. Visitors are welcome to have a taste and enjoy a perfect pint or two.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Their beers are “farm-grown and hand-crafted.” They use their own hops in all of their beers, as well as many other ingredients grown on their farm or sourced in their neighborhood to enhance the local character of their brews. They brew traditional styles of ales. 63
NICK’S ORGANIC FARM 2733 Buckeystown Pike, Adamstown 301.983.2167 • www.nicksorganicfarm.com Founded in 1979, Nick’s Organic Farm sells directly to consumers. They raise all grass-fed Black Angus cattle, pastured chickens and turkeys, free-range eggs and food grade corn, soybeans and small grains. Located outside Buckeystown on a 165-acre certified organic farm, they are committed to constant improvement of the soil. Join the mailing list by emailing nicksorganicfarm@comcast.net.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Grass-fed beef, no hormones, grain or antibiotics; ground beef, beef sausage and jerky; organic pastured chicken and turkey, heritage and standard breeds; organic freerange eggs; organic heirloom grinding corn, popcorn, and cornmeal, non-GMO; organic poultry feeds, hay and straw.
OAKIE DOKE FARMS 10330 Oak Hill Road, Keymar 301.473.0723 • www.oakiedokefarms.com Oakie Doke Farms is a small farm specializing in sustainably grown, GMO-free produce. Their mission is to make fresh, healthy produce affordable for everyone. They offer full shares and small shares in their pay-as-you-go CSA. All of Oakie Doke Farms’ produce, and home canned goods carry the Homegrown by Heroes certification. Stop by and visit the farm or the roadside stand at Calvary Assembly Church in Walkersville.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Offering sustainably grown, GMO free produce through our roadside stands and our pay-as-you-go CSA. They offer home-canned goods and cooking and canning classes on the farm. Summer and winter CSA shares available.
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OPEN BOOK FARM 6600B Roy Shafer Road, Middletown 240.457.2558 • www.openbookfarm.com They are a diversified livestock and vegetable farm serving Frederick and the larger Middletown Valley. In their farming methods they focus on soil health, livestock well-being and direct to consumer sales.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Their farm offers a seasonal farm stand on Saturday mornings from May-October featuring their pastureraised meats and eggs and their own certified organic produce. Customers may also participate in a main season CSA (shop at the farm stand with your CSA tab) or a monthly winter CSA (November-February).
ORCHID CELLAR MEADERY & WINERY 8546 Pete Wiles Road, Middletown 301.473.3568 • www.orchidcellar.com They are Maryland’s premier meadery and winery specializing in complex honey wines, and unique red and white varietals. Visit their scenic tasting room in the Middletown Valley for an intimate tasting experience and an introduction into the divine world of mead. The tasting room sits among 15 acres of land, two acres of grapevines and a handful of beehives. They welcome mead fanatics, wine lovers and beer snobs to sample libations and engage with their questions and thoughts.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They produce the oldest known alcohol: mead, a wine made from honey.
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P&R FARMS
PENNY’S PLANTS
2901 Green Valley Road, Ijamsville 301.385.7898 • 301.509.1688 www.pandrfarms.com
6706 Millime Court, New Market 301.865.0517 • www.facebook.com/Pennys-Plants1606574759571711
P&R Farms is owned and operated by newly-weds Pat and Reilly Curran. After farming as a hobby for a number of years they decided to run their operation more like a business and offer products to more than just friends and family. They believe the everyday consumer should have access to respectfully raised local meat. Their goal is to stay as true as possible to the farming practices of our ancestors by rotationally grazing the pastures to maintain the fields, and avoiding antibiotics. They believe in taking excellent care of their animals so, in turn, their animals will nutritionally take care of their family and their customers.
Penny’s Plants offers heirloom and hybrid fruit, vegetable and herb garden transplants. Hand-sown and grown from seed, they come in biodegradable direct sow pots. Transplants are available throughout the spring and fall planting seasons, herbs are available all year. Thirteen raised-bed gardens are filled with fruits and vegetables available at several local farmers markets and the farm. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They would welcome farm tours for those who are interested.
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HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Private educational opportunities available to learn about raised bed and lasagna gardening, companion gardening and starting plants from seed.
PICNIC WOODS FARM 6433 Picnic Woods Road, Jefferson 301.371.9202 • www.picnicwoodsfarm.com Picnic Woods Farm is the home of a flock of Romney Sheep, miniature donkeys to guard them, Angus cattle and bossy geese. Their wool is sent to Prince Edward Island in Canada and spun into wool blankets in many colors. Visitors are welcome, including to see "Hank" the well-known soccer ball playing donkey.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Natural Maryland wool blankets are available in a variety of colors, both tweed and solids and are made from the wool from Picnic Woods Farm sheep.
PLEASANT HILL PRODUCE 10009 Kelly Road, Walkersville 8522 Biggs Ford Road, Walkersville 301.471.2699 • www.pleasanthillproduce.com Pleasant Hill Produce was founded in 2014 by Ben and Heather Sayler. They grow high-quality seasonal produce using environmentally-friendly practices on two farms totaling four acres in Walkersville. Products are available through CSA shares and local farmers markets. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They offer a wide variety of seasonal vegetables, eggs and three different size CSA boxes available at many pick-up locations throughout Frederick County.
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RED SHEDMAN FARM BREWERY 13601 Glissans Mill Road, Mount Airy 301.831.5889 www.redshedman.com Red Shedman Farm Brewery & Hop Yard was established in 2014. It is located among the rolling hills of Mount Airy, on more than 200 acres of farmland between Frederick and Baltimore. They cultivate several varieties of hops including Cascade, Columbus, Chinook, Nugget and Crystal. Red Shedman beers range from blondes to stouts and an expanding portfolio of hard ciders. Red Shedman Brewery is open Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. with live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They currently can seven different beers on site that are available for sale in the tasting room and at many locations throughout the state.
RIGHTS OF MAN FARM, LLC 9120 Ball Road, Ijamsville 240.674.2727 • 240.674.2733 www.rightsofmanfarm.com This family-owned farm sells certified organic vegetables, chicken, turkey and eggs and all-natural, grass-fed beef along with all-natural goat and pork at their on-farm store. All animals are free-range. Winter and summer meat/produce CSAs are available. Call or visit the website for store hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They operate a farm store with items such as freezer beef, goat, chicken and pork, plus fresh organic eggs and seasonal vegetables.
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ROCKY POINT CREAMERY, LLC 4323A Tuscarora Road, Tuscarora 301.874.5005 • www.rockypointcreamery.com The creamery has 80 flavors of ice cream, along with milk, brown eggs, cheese and farm-grown Black Angus beef. They have a 180 Holstein cow dairy herd and 1,500 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and hay, along with 1.5 acres of sunflowers for sale during July and August with proceeds going to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT You can now purchase their pasture raised Angus Cross Beef at the creamery. This leaner than full Angus is 100 percent natural, no antibiotics or added hormones. Beef is dry aged and frozen.
SADDLEVIEW RANCH 2719 Thurston Road, Frederick 301.831.8715 • www.saddleviewranch.net This small family-owned and operated farm has horses for sale, lease, boarding and horse shows for both English and Western riders. There’s access to miles of trails on Sugarloaf Mountain, two large arenas with sandstone footing and a round pen, plus gift shop. Whether for a day or to stay, you and your horse will enjoy Saddleview Ranch. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Gifts for the equine enthusiast, as well as a therapy section with essential massage, bath and body oils, aromatherapy lotions and remedies. They also have handcrafts, gifts, housewares, transfers and custom embroidery.
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SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS 16239 Sabillasville Road, Sabillasville 301.271.2149 • www.scenicvieworchards.com Scenic View Orchards is a seven generation owned and operated family farm. Their farm heritage requires sustainable farming practices—erosion control, field contouring, cover crops, crop rotation, farm land preservation and use of integrated pest management practices. They meet the needs of customers at nine farmers markets in Washington, Frederick and Montgomery counties, in addition to the Sabillasville farm market. The farm motto is “Get Fresh with Us.”
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Berries, cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, nectarines, pears, apples, sweet corn, tomatoes, green beans, peppers, potatoes, melons, pumpkins, honey, cider in season, cut flowers, and hay/straw.
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SCHIFFERSTADT ARCHITECTURAL MUSEUM 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick 301.663.3885 • www.fredericklandmarksfoudation.org The museum is one of the oldest buildings in the city of Frederick. The house is a fine and rare example of German Colonial architecture still standing in the region. It was built by early German settlers, the Brunner family, in 1758. Open for weekend tours Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. for a suggested donation of $5 per adult, and during the week by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Even though Schifferstadt is private property, the Heritage Garden is open (please, no dogs) to see daily until dusk. The plants and herbs are typical to those that the Brunners would have grown in the 1700s. Visit the website and blog for up-to-date event information.
SHADOWS OF CATOCTIN
SOUTH MOUNTAIN CREAMERY
6517 Fish Hatchery Road, Thurmont 301.898.3228 • www.shadowsofcatoctinfarm.com
8305 Bolivar Road, Middletown 301.371.8565 • www.southmountaincreamery.com
Certified Organic vegetable and herb farm raising healthy food for healthy bodies.They grow many varieties of tomatoes, sweet peppers and hot peppers as well as a wide variety of other tasty vegetables selected for their flavor. Their vegetables are great for snacking and can help make your favorite recipes the best they can be.
South Mountain Creamery brings the farmers market to you and does the cooking, too. Fresh from the cow, all natural dairy, cage-free, certified humane eggs; grass-fed beef, fruit and vegetables, bakery items, fresh homemade soups, salads, home cooked meals and healthy snacks. Delivery to nearly 9,000 homes in D.C., Md., Va. and W.Va. with a commitment to help customers live a healthier lifestyle by providing a convenient way to shop local farm-to-table. They love visitors and are open 365 days a year for self-guided tours or during the week for guided tours. Go to Visit Us on their website to learn more.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT You can find Shadows of Catoctin at area farmers markets, at the Common Market and they run a CSA.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Visit to watch the cows milked or feed the calves. Join Picnic on the Pasture, in April. Sign up for home delivery and start shopping right away. You can have fresh from the farm products within the week. 71
SPRINGFIELD MANOR WINERY, DISTILLERY & BREWERY 11836 Auburn Road, Thurmont 301.271.0099 • www.springfieldmanor.com Maryland’s first winery, brewery and distillery, Springfield is named after the farm's limestone spring water that produces the finest spirits around. The family-operated 130-acre estate on U.S. 15 produces award-winning wines and handcrafted spirits including whiskey, rye, gin, vodka, brandy and rum. They have been distilling and barrel-aging spirits in Frederick County since 2012, using corn grown on the property. Sample the Lavender Gin, voted bestflavored gin in the world. Check out the exciting assortment of beer on tap. Springfield Manor features outdoor patio space, event space for 300 guests, a comfortable tasting room, great food and live music.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Handcrafted fine spirits: Lavender gin, rye, bourbon, rum, brandy and vodka. Ten award-winning varieties of wine. Assorted beer on tap. Lavender plants, flowers and products.
SPRUCE RUN FARM 12924 Spruce Run Road, Myersville 301.293.1070 • www.sprucerunrd.com Spruce Run Farm is a small farm located near Wolfsville. It grew from the owners’ desire to share their passion for agriculture and simple sustainable living with others. In addition to growing produce and beekeeping, they currently raise dairy goats, Hereford hogs, Katahdin Sheep, as well as chickens and rabbits for meat or pets. While you can find them at several farmers’ markets including Middletown and Myersville, as Spruce Run Farm continues to grow, they welcome you to visit.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Spruce Run Farm strives to bring the best of locally-grown or handmade items, featuring seasonal produce, jams and jellies, raw local honey, goat milk soaps, as well as fresh poultry and live or dressed rabbit. 72
STADLER NURSERIES 5504 Mount Zion Road, Frederick 301.473.9042 • www.stadlernurseries.com Stadler Nurseries has been a growing family business since 1932. Their first three garden centers, in Frederick, Gaithersburg and Manassas, Va., are where you will find an exceptional selection of trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials. They also have a wide selection of native plants and organic garden care products. Stadler is known for trees with over 300 acres in production. Almost all plants sold are locally grown. The staff is enthusiastic gardeners who love sharing ideas and advice with customers. Landscape design services are available.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, bulbs and holiday plants, garden accents including fountains, statuary, wind chimes, firepots, birdbaths and containers of every size and style, also garden care products including an extensive selection of organic plant health care options.
SUGARLOAF’S BREEZY VALLEY FARM 1215 Buckeystown Pike, Adamstown 301.874.0958 • www.facebook.com/sugarloafsbreezy valleygoats/ This family farm is nestled in the picturesque valley between the Catoctin Mountains and Sugarloaf Mountain. The family humanely raises Boer and Boer Cross goats. They sell goats as breeding stock to consumers and restaurants, as well as for 4H projects, companions for horses, weed control and pets. They also sell orchard grass hay in small square bales and welcome visitors by appointment. See their farm page on Facebook search @ sugarloafsbreezyvalleygoats.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT March and April are a great time to visit. Come in March and meet the goat kids. If you come at feeding time, you will get to see the goat stampede. 73
SUMMERS FARM 5620 Butterfly Lane, Frederick 301.620.9316 • www.summersfarm.com Summers Farm is a 100-acre working farm. Each fall they host an annual harvest festival to share their agricultural heritage. Activities include a 14-acre corn maze, slides, farm animals, two jumping pillows, farmer golf, pig races and more. Farm fresh food and bakery items include their famous homemade apple cider donuts.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT In the fall, take a free hayride out to the pumpkin patch and select the perfect pumpkin sold by the pound. A large assortment of gourds, straw, cornstalk bundles available for all your decorating needs.
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SYCAMORE SPRING FARM 6003 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick 301.788.6980 • www.sycamorespringfarm.org A 14-year-old CSA program on a 340-year-old farm that practices “Do No Harm Farming.” Producing over 65 varieties of vegetables, fruits, berries, nuts and herbs plus pastured beef, poultry and eggs. Healthy food from incredibly healthy soil is available year round at the farm's market and country store. Tours, workshops and delivery sites are detailed on the website.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Educational tours and classes, pastured meats, beef by the quarter or half. Winter program features hoop house produce and poultry.
THANKSGIVING FARMS
THREE STREAMS FARM
1619 Buckeystown Pike, Adamstown 301.662.1291 • www.thanksgivingfarmandgarden.com
6775 Burkittsville Road, Middletown 410.409.0436 • 240.398.0298 • www.facebook.com/ three-streams-farm-314060805449092/
Thanksgiving Farms is a diversified 57-acre family-owned and operated business. They grow a vast selection of fresh fruits and vegetables March through December, and grow and specialize in unusual annuals, perennials, herbs and shrubs in a three-acre greenhouse and nursery garden center. They offer a CSA program throughout most of the year. 'We Grow Our Own' is their motto and they take great pride in an ability to offer products grown from start to finish on their sustainable family farm. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Pick-your-own options are available along with fruits, vegetables, annuals, perennials, herbs, evergreens, shrubs and trees, a selection of gardening enhancements—pottery, statuary, trellises— and tools and gifts for gardeners.
This third generation family farm specializes in 100 percent grassfed lamb/mutton from Khatahdin sheep and beef from Oreo cows. No growth hormones or antibiotics. Livestock is raised humanely on pastures and butchered locally. Pastured eggs are from heritage breed Rhode Island Reds named Henrietta. Visit them at the Middletown Farmers Market.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Know where your food comes from. Visit Three Streams Farm for pastured eggs, grass fed lamb/beef, and pesticide/herbicide-free produce. Pick-your-own is an option by appointment.
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TWIN HILLS FARM, LLC 3630 Park Mills Road, Frederick 301.788.2784 • www.twinhillsfarmurbana.com They are a small family farm dedicated to providing customers with the full farm experience. Come and see the animals, walk through gardens and even get down in the dirt. This year they will be managing the Stone Barn Community Gardens and will offer education, seedlings and answer any questions customer may have. They will also be offering a CSA program, limited to 25 customers.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT The farm offers fresh eggs, chicken, herbs and fruit.
WHISPERING MEADOWS ALPACA BREEDERS 13959 Unionville Road, Mount Airy 301.452.9460 • www.whisperingmeadowsalpaca.com Established in 1999, the farm maintains 30 alpacas. They started the first 4-H alpaca club in Frederick County. Their motto is “first in fiber, first in fun, first in Frederick.” They breed high-quality alpacas as well as their own hay and have a variety of other animals on the farm year round. Call or visit the website for hours.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT A variety of hand-made, home-grown, made in the USA, and some Peruvian alpaca products available. From natural to dyed yarns, raw fiber, rovings, bears, hats, scarves, gloves, purses, sweaters, vests, socks, finger puppets, throws and more. Follow them on Facebook for other events.
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WHITMORE FARM 10720 Dern Road, Emmitsburg www.whitmorefarm.com Whitmore Farm specializes in lamb and eggs. They also produce cut flowers seasonally and sell day old chicks in the spring. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Lamb, eggs and cut flowers.
WILD SONG FARM 13720 Moser Road, Thurmont 240.405.7622 • www.wildsongfarm.us Wild Song Farm is a small family farm started in 2016. They sell soy-free, non-GMO eggs from pastured hens and seasonal produce raised using organic practices. The farm is located just outside of the Thurmont City limits, conveniently just down the street from the library and near the trolley trail. Simply text or stop by to pick up eggs or visit their roadside stand for fresh produce and eggs.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT They grind and mix their own soy-free, non-GMO chicken feed on the farm, ensuring freshness and high quality ingredients high in minerals and omega-3 fatty acids.
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WILLOW OAKS CRAFT CIDER 6219 Harley Road, Middletown 301.371.4814 • www.willowoakscraftcider.com Eric Rice and Lori Leitzel Rice craft their farmhouse style cider from certified organic, American heirloom apples on their 35-acre farm in Middletown. Organic pears, blueberries, black currants and other fruits make tasty additions to Willow Oaks' ciders. Fabulous fruit, unique terroir and small-batch barrel fermentation let the flavors and aroma of the fruit shine through to a crisp, dry finish. Visit the website for tasting room hours.
WINTERBROOK FARMS 13001 Creagerstown Road, Thurmont 301.465.3801 • www.winterbrookfarmsmd.com This family entertainment spot also known as Lawyer’s Winterbrook Farms offers a different theme each year. Let your children play for hours in the indoor area, learn about life on the farm and even get up close and pet their farm animals. There is also Maryland’s largest corn maze, pumpkin cannons, pick-yourown pumpkin patch, mountain slides and much more.
HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT HOMEGROWN HIGHLIGHT Fresh organic produce, beef, jam, flowers, seedlings, potted fig trees and more are available at the farm store in the Willow Oaks barn. Relax on the deck, enjoy a glass of cider and take in the view.
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Maryland’s largest corn maze is here, covering over 20 acres corn. Aim and fire the pumpkin cannons at targets, race down huge mountain slides, take the hay ride out to pick your own pumpkins and gourds. Enjoy a hot cup of apple cider and browse around the farm market. There is something for all ages.
LETS TALK TURKEY, and so Much More. Sure, We Offer the Area s Freshest Turkey but Did You Know We Also Make
Fresh Turkey Sausage Potpies, Turkey Jerky Turkey Snack Stix
Not to Mention
(6 Flavors)
Smoked Turkey Parts
All Natural Fresh Chicken, DEli-Sliced Roast Beef, Country Ham and Pork Bacon At Amazing Prices
301.271.2728
•
www.hillsideturkey.com
30 Elm St., Thurmont, MD 21788 • Store Hours: Thursday and Friday 8am-3pm, Saturday 8am-12pm
Stop By and See For Yourself. Get Perky, Eat More Turkey
D.W. OGG Equipment Company
D.W. OGG Equipment Company
5149 Cap Stine Road | Frederick, MD
5149 Cap Stine Road | Frederick, MD
301-473-4250 | www.dwogg.net
301-473-4250 | www.dwogg.net