The Farmstead at SHO by Earth Asset Partnership, LP

The Farmstead at SHO | HUNTINGTON, VERMONT

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

The Farmstead at SHO Table of Contents 2

Regional Map

Property Details

Introduction

Built Environment

Renewable Energy System

Food System

Conservation Values

The Investment

Natural Environment

Land Use

History

Recreational Attributes

Area Information

About Earth Asset

ÂŠ2018 Earth Asset Partnership, LP

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Regional Map

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Location

Huntington Center, Chittenden County, Vermont | New England Region, Northeastern USA

Access & Distances

Air

Property Details

Burlington International Airport, Burlington, 40 min drive (commercial) Albany International Airport, Albany, NY, 2 hr drive (commercial) Montreal, Canada, 2.5 hrs; Boston, MA, 4 hrs; NYC, 6 hrs

Car

Built Environment

Farmhouse

Energy Barn

4-Bay Garage-Utility Barn

6-bedrooms, 7-baths, 100% sustainably rebuilt, Camel’s Hump views 3-story heated timber frame barn, super-insulated, multi-functional, views 1-bedroom, 1-bath living quarters & painting studio, Camel’s Hump views 2-bedrooms & 1-bath, garage/workshop, Camel’s Hump views 2-story equipment storage facility

Natural Environment

Acreage

Offering 1: 45± acres

Studio Barn Caretaker's Residence

Offering 2: 185± acres

1,100± acres of Seller-retained land under conservation stewardship 18,153-acre Camel’s Hump State Park

Surrounded By

Adjacent To

Green Features

Renewable Electrical System 15kW solar PV, 20kW generator, expansion potential

Renewable Heating System

Perennial Food System

Farmhouse & Energy Barn

Food Production

Established organic fruit, nut, and fuel orchard with edible perennial gardens including plums, seaberries, aronia, blueberries, cherries, cold hardy kiwi, pears, black raspberries, schisandra, raspberries, currants, apples, mushroom, horseradish, and hazelnuts.

Conservation Values

Solar collectors, dual-fuel boilers, storage tanks, expansion potential 8.77± acre permaculture orchard and gardens Custom green materials, superior build quality, multi-functional

Property surrounded by private 1,100± acre Foundation-owned watershed abutting Camel’s Hump State Park, and part of greater Winooski and Camel’s Hump Watersheds. Significant wildlife habitat and diverse population, including bear, moose, deer, fox, coyote, mink, otter, beaver, bobcat, fisher, weasel, turkey, rabbit, hawks, owls, hummingbirds, and northern songbirds.

Recreational Attributes Swimming, hiking, biking (mountain & road), running (trail & road), skiing (alpine, backcountry and

cross-country), sailing & kayaking (Lake Champlain), bird-watching, stargazing, and nature/wildlife photography. Seller

Foundation for a Sustainable Future, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

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Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Town

Huntington Center | Vermont

Region

New England Region | Northeastern USA

Lat./Long. 44° 17’ 36” N, 72° 56’ 24” W

Introduction The Offering | The Foundation for a Sustainable Future

Offering 1, The Farmstead at SHO, includes 45+/- acres, four

is pleased to offer for sale a discrete and private portion of its

main buildings and several farm accessory structures. The core

1,296+/- acre holding, SHO Farm. The Foundation is a 501(c)

building complex includes the Farmhouse, Energy Barn, Studio

(3) non-profit promoting land and biodiversity conservation,

Barn, and Caretaker’s Residence, totaling 32,750+/- square

ecological innovation, and the evolution of consciousness.

feet of space, of which 25,000+/- square feet were recently

The Foundation is selling a portion of SHO Farm to raise

sustainably designed and built. This part of the property

funds for its rescue duck sanctuary and next wave of land-based

represents the Foundation’s first major project, an artfully-

work, including establishing a permanent wildlife preserve,

crafted), ecologically-designed farmstead which includes

researching agroecological-wild farming, and continuing its

renewable heat and electrical systems, and a mature, thriving

perennial gastronomy project.

permaculture orchard comprised of diverse fruits, nuts, and

The Foundation prefers to retain ownership of as much

perennial plantings.

acreage as possible to limit fragmentation of its otherwise large

Offering 2 includes The Farmstead plus 140+/- acres, for a

and single-owner conservation landscape. It also recognizes

total of 185+/- acres. The additional acreage features open

that more acreage may be desirable for some buyers. Therefore,

fields and pasture adjacent to the entrance, a sugarbush, rich

the Foundation is offering two different configurations for

deer habitat, and a hidden brookside apple orchard.

a buyer to consider.

Both offerings are enfolded by the Foundation’s retained 1,100+/- acres, and sit beneath one of the highest and wildest ridgelines in the Green Mountains.

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The Farmstead at

Property Overview | Purchased in 2003 by the

Location | The Farmstead at SHO is set within the northern

Foundation for a Sustainable Future, The SHO Farm Project

forest biome of Eastern North America, and just east of Vermont’s

mission was “to create an ecologically intelligent food, energy and

fertile Champlain Valley. It sits within the largest swath of

building system that enhances the environment and serves the

designated wild lands in the Northeastern United States.

SHO is an iconic

evolution of its occupants,” according to Foundation founder

demonstration property

and executive director, Melissa Hoffman. The Foundation has

for what is possible in the food-energybuilding sectors. It fuses traditional and

completed phase one of The SHO Farm Project, the result of which is the birth of The Farmstead at SHO . Hoffman’s hope is that all of the creative work the Foundation has done on integrated food-energy-building systems will serve as a valuable and evolving educational resource.

contemporary building

The 1,100± acre tract being kept by the Foundation will

design with craft

be stewarded to advance its goals of ecological integrity

construction practices,

and regenerative land use, which includes the ongoing

features a state-of-the-art

implementation of the ideas expressed in the Master

expandable renewable energy system, houses a high-nutrient food

Plan and in the Foundation’s extensive wildlife-centered forest management plan. Hoffman recognizes that wellstewarded properties of this size are rare, and that parcel fragmentation due to financial pressure is namely to

system that was designed

blame. Her Foundation’s ability to prudently steward a

for resiliency and climate

landholding of this scale is a win-win for everyone, including

change, enjoys plentiful water, and is free of flood risks.

the new owner of The Farmstead at SHO .

Located 25 miles southeast of Burlington, the largest city in the state, The Farmstead at SHO offers close proximity to colleges, cultural services, and an international airport. The property is nearly equidistant to Montpelier (the State capital) and Middlebury—about 40 minutes drive time. By car, the property is approximately 2.5 hours from Montreal, 4 hours from Boston, and 6 hours from New York City. By plane, The Farmstead at SHO is a convenient 1-hour flight from Boston and New York. The Farmstead is located in the Town of Huntington (population 1,939), Chittenden County, Vermont between the Huntington River and the main spine of the Green Mountains. More specifically, The Farmstead at SHO is situated in the South Village, known as Huntington Center. Camel’s Hump State Park abuts the Foundation land’s eastern edge, and Huntington Center’s village abuts its western edge. Camel’s Hump’s summit (1,245m; 4,083’) lies 1.5 miles to the northeast, and Mt. Ira Allen (1,055m; 3,460’) is 1.2 miles due east. All of the land drains into the Huntington River

Part of the beauty of offering the farm complex, orchard

via Brush and Cobb Brooks, which form portions of

installation, and core 45± acres is that it keeps acquisition

the Foundation land’s north and south boundaries. The

costs as low as possible, while availing the new owner of all

Huntington River is a major tributary to the Winooski

the benefits of living next to Camel’s Hump State Forest

River, which drains westward into Lake Champlain.

and within a private watershed. Earth Asset Partnership, LP

As part of the social dimension of its green renovation, the Farmhouse was designed to facilitate creative work and mission centered gathering. As such, it can be used

Built Environment

as a hub for retreats, summits, intensive work sessions, or comfortable daily living. Given the special attention to sound

Buildings

insulation, flexible-use spaces, and multiple

Farmhouse | The c. 1865, 1969, 1989 Colonial-style

private zones, it can accommodate one

Farmhouse was entirely renovated in 2008 into what is now an

household, three unrelated sets of occupants

innovative, durable, and refined design that blends authentic materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and cutting edge green technologies. It is, in essence, a new building. The wood used throughout the interior is predominantly from the property, and has been shaped into multi-textured cabinetry with differing cuts and patterns. Salvaged and regionally sourced natural materials have been transformed into a contemporary expression of traditional craftsmanship. Every room possesses unique character and subtle detail. The house, surprisingly low maintenance, will last for centuries, gracefully preserving its classic and timeless quality.

Gross area

10,538Âą square feet

Net area

8,038Âą square feet

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simultaneously, a group of 12 comfortably, or a working group of 20 or more in a dorm-like fashion.

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“The Farmstead at SHO represents the unique exploration and integration of landscape, architecture and sustainability. It captures the true essence of reinforcing a conceptual paradigm into every aspect of design and construction. The project embodies the process of invention and creativity which are embedded in every detail at the Farmtead. The landscape is truly a magical experience with its boundless inspiration. The property provokes the spirit of imagination.”

Built Environment

- Brian J. Mac, FAIA | Principal Architect | Birdseye Building Co

The first floor features common living space, including the formal entry mudroom, great room, main kitchen, pantry, den, study, living room, and media room. The media room, on the northern end of the house, with its booming views of Camel’s Hump and the east gardens, makes for an ideal large private office or conference room. Adjoining the media room is a small, cozy space with one of the building’s masonry heaters, making for a wonderful study or sitting room. The great room, on the southern end of the house, features the massive stone masonry heater, expansive 180-degree viewshed, and direct access to the greenhouse; it is light, warm and inviting. It could serve as a public meeting space, common dining area, or small library. While it is next to the main kitchen, gorgeously crafted cherry pocket doors ensure ease of access without sacrificing privacy and quiet. The pantry off the main kitchen is set up to receive harvests from the east garden, with stainless steel counter tops, a deep sink for rinsing, a Sunfrost freezer, and a walk-in passive refrigerator.

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Built Environment The second floor features two separate suites, the modern master with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, and the 1865 section with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, a kitchenette, and the laundry facility. The sun-filled master suite would make an excellent private office or group meeting space, with a private bath, cathedral ceilings, private deck, and vents for passive heating from the greenhouse. The two adjacent guest bedrooms share a three-

quarter bath, and feature Murphy beds and built-in shelves, allowing instant conversion to great individual office spaces. In the 1865 section of the house are 2 more bedrooms, both featuring Murphy beds, built-in cabinetry, and a galley style kitchen, complete with sink, stove with oven, and space for a Sunfrost refrigerator. These bedrooms share a partitioned three-quarter bath, and would also make wonderful office spaces. The Farmhouse, with 6 bedrooms, 1 full bath, 4 threequarter baths and 2 half baths, can certainly serve as a traditional home. However, the creativity behind the design and data cabling throughout the house allows the bedrooms to just as easily function as office space, meeting rooms or workshop/ classroom areas. BB

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Chapter Titles

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The Farmhouse is tied into the Energy Barn’s renewable electric

Built Environment

and heating systems, and backup generator. It also has its own 80-gallon domestic hot water tank. A portion of the below-grade space features a 1-bedroom apartment, complete with a separate sleeping area, three-quarter bath, and kitchen with sitting area. It enjoys private, gradelevel access from the north, and views of Camel’s Hump. The remaining below-grade space, complete with a lightwell connected to the greenhouse, is available to finish to the new owner’s specifications and features bright modern lighting, a masonry heater, satellite and multiple data ports, a private bulkhead entry door, large root cellar, and three-quarter bath.

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Green Features 3-season greenhouse, salvaged steel frame, reclaimed Radiant floor heating, with local sand and clay Adobe underneath all wood floors serpentine marble floor Site-harvested wood interior

Full manual backup systems (sewage, water, heating,

Redundant systems for ultimate reliability (heat,

refrigeration, cooking) supporting fully functional living

water, food storage) Custom doors crafted from salvaged wood Super-insulated, R40 walls, R60 roof Interior walls insulated with recycled denim and wool Multiple pocket doors between rooms allowing

in the event of extended power outages or active systems failure Masonry heaters/fireplaces in each section of the house, each a unique, sculptural piece Hand pump connected to an existing well on south porch

for flexible use

Special wiring that eliminates all electromagnetic Sound insulation between rooms and sections to fields facilitate creative work Low-maintenance exterior redwood clapboard siding Low-maintenance composting system serving 3 toilets reclaimed from old wine casks 4 low-flow toilets

Low-maintenance cypress siding reclaimed from

Custom-cut salvaged granite entrance floor

sunken logs

Custom-cut salvaged slate shower room

Biological water treatment system (constructed

Passively cooled walk-in refrigerator

wetland) that purifies grey and black water

Root (or wine) cellar

Super-efficient LED and compact fluorescent lighting

Absence of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in plumbing and wiring Non-toxic materials, hypoallergenic environment Organic latex mattresses and custom-designed Murphy beds (4) Bathroom tiles crafted from recycled glass

systems Wood cookstove as backup to the Wolf double oven, grill, and range Tie-in to Energy Barnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s renewable electricity and heating systems Custom cabinetry made from site-harvested wood Insulated double-pane windows

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The Energy Barn has an exposed sculptural frame, soaring ceilings, and a cathedral-like

Built Environment

upper floor with a contemporary cupola, and warm, glowing wood. All plumbing is in place for a commercial kitchen, composting and

Energy Barn | Built to commercial specifications with fully flush toilets, showers, and two additional conditioned interior space, the c. 2007 Energy Barn is a 3-story timber frame barn constructed from Douglas fir beams salvaged

expansive, and can be adapted to multiple uses: performance space, studios, further

from old industrial warehouses in the Northeast. Much like hay

living quarters, lab, spa, agricultural

lofts storing food for animals on other farms, the Energy

production, teaching space, offices...many

Barn gathers and stores energy from the site to be fed to the existing buildings. It has all the components in place to service

possibilities. Like the Farmhouse, it was designed to adapt to changing conditions and multiple uses. It also contains the basic

additional buildings. Currently, it supplies three out of the four

layout for a small apartment, intended for

Farmstead buildings with electricity (Farmhouse, Energy Barn,

a farm manager or interns, as well as

Caretaker’s Residence), two of them with heat (Farmhouse, Energy Barn), with the hardware in place for expansion to all buildings on site. It is super-insulated, and has zoned radiant floor heat. It is wired throughout for data and electricity. Some materials for completing the interior are on site, and are included as part of the offering. Gross area

14,661± square feet

Net area

10,049± square feet

extensive food and seed storage space.

The Energy Barn houses all the components of the renewable energy system, with a full-size backup generator, three wood gasification boilers, five hot water storage tanks, solar thermal tubing, 15 kilowatts of photovoltaic panels with Sunnyboy inverters, space and engineering to add a battery

kitchens. The middle and top floors are

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bank, and ground source heat pump components if desired. Most recently, the Energy Barn has become home to the Foundation’s duck sanctuary and apple cidery.

Energy Barn Green Features Super-insulated R40 walls, R60 roof Reclaimed Douglas fir frame FSC certified spruce interior Salvaged cypress exterior Salvaged cypress custom-built doors Nano-gel skylights LED and compact fluorescent lighting Insulated double-pane windows

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Built Environment Studio Barn | The c. 2001 Studio Barn is a c. 1860 timber frame barn that was moved and re-erected by the previous owners, and then converted to living quarters in 2005. It enjoys southern exposure and stunning views of Camel’s Hump. The 2-story structure features traditional hand-hewn framing, a cathedral ceiling, and cupola. The hayloft is used as the sleeping space, the old tack room is now the washroom/pantry, and three horse stalls have been converted to a coatroom, a library/office, and a dressing/bathing room. A full kitchen, eating area, and living room share the spacious and open main floor area. A full, unfinished basement offers two functional garage spaces, and houses the laundry facilities and painting studio. The Studio Barn is a cozy, quintessential getaway. This building is not currently tied into the Energy Barn’s renewable electric or heating systems, or backup generator. Gross area

2,814± square feet

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Studio Barn Green Features Reclaimed hand-hewn timber frame, siding, flooring Radiant floor heating Cabinetry constructed with reclaimed wood and site-harvested wood Stress skin panel insulation English Wood cookstove and whole-building heater Cupola venting for natural convection cooling Southern roof exposure for future solar PV expansion Insulated double-pane windows

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Built Environment Caretaker’s Residence | The c. 2001 Cape-style residence was built by the previous owners for the caretaker. It is a 2-story structure featuring 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, a full kitchen, and living room. Below grade is a full, unfinished space with a woodstove and toilet, currently used as a workshop, that can accommodate 2 vehicles, smaller motorized vehicles (riding lawnmower, ATV), and recreational equipment. Attic space with an exterior door and pulley system serves as dry storage for lumber. This building is tied into the Energy Barn’ renewable electric system, and backup generator. Gross area

2,401± square feet

Utility barn | The c. 1988 4-bay utility barn is used for equipment storage. It is a 2-story structure with 4 bays on the first level, and finished space on the second level. It is currently not tied into power, but has the capacity to be.

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Support Infrastructure Caretakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Residence Green Features

Wastewater Disposal System

Private, on-site, includes constructed wetland. Permitted for residential use, up to 10 bedrooms.

Woodstoves provide most winter heat

Potable Water

Private, on-site drilled well and hand pump on Farmhouse porch

Electrical tie-in to Energy Barn solar

Electric

15kW solar PV, 20kW Honda generator, and grid tie-in service provided by Vermont Electric Cooperative

and generator Well-insulated, recent construction

Reclaimed marble kitchen island

3 dual-fuel (wood & oil) Tarm boilers, 5 Tarm 660-gallon hot water storage tanks, 6 Mazdon solar collectors

Natural wood siding, flooring, and interior

Phone

12 lines, service provided by Waitsfield Champlain Valley Telecom

Television

1DishNetwork Standard satellite

Internet

High-speed DSL service provided by Green Mountain Access with T1 capability

Wireless Campus

Wireless hubs and wiring in place for connection to campus-wide wireless, facilitating use of VOIP phone system. Hardware not installed.

Site-harvested wide pine flooring Insulated double-pane windows

Heat

Fuel Resources Electric

Electricity

Supplied by Vermont Electric Cooperative

Solar

Electricity

Supplied by 15kW solar PV

Solar

Heat

Supplied by Mazdon solar collectors

Oil

Equipment & Heat

Supplied by Patterson Fuels

Propane

Cooking & Heat

Supplied by Blue Flame Gas

Biodeiesel/diesel

Backup Generator, Tractor & Heat

Supplied by Patterson Fuels & other vendors

Currently, the Farmstead relies on grid power for a portion of its electricity needs, and the renewable system offsets

Renewable Energy System

electricity costs. If completed, the system could run all farm operations, including food processing and storage, and electrify

Design Ideals | The Farmstead at SHO â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy system

and heat the Farmsteadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fully occupied buildings with the

has been designed to produce clean heat and electricity

ability to extend the electrical system to two additional sites.

indefinitely, and to dynamically adapt to unpredictable future

The system also lends itself to experimentation, and would be

climatic and energy conditions. The systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first phase is

an ideal place to field test emerging technologies.

complete and operational, and it can either be expanded or stand as is. The overarching design vision is very ambitious and the engineering is complete, marrying diverse components and energy sources into one working system. While ambitious, the system was designed to model how multiple sources of generation (wind, water, solar, biomass) could harmonize as one adaptive system, solve intermittency issues, and serve as a microcosm for regionally-distributed generation and district heating.

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Electricity

Renewable Energy System

Completed Phase 1 includes

15 kW grid-intertied solar photovoltaic array 20 kW generator able to run on biodiesel 6 Sunnyboy inverters that convert DC generated power to conventional 110 volt AC power Fiber optic infrastructure for real time data collection of on-site natural resources Campus-wide WIFI wiring in place

The system is also

Approximately 5kW additional solar expansion on the Studio Barn rooftop 5-50 kW rack mounted solar panels Small wind turbine(s) (6-15 kW) Battery bank to permit a self-contained, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;islandedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; system

engineered to accept

Heat Completed Phase 1 includes

Solar greenhouse with passive venting into 1st and 2nd floors of the southern end of the Farmhouse 3 dual-fuel (wood & oil) Tarm boilers 5 Tarm super-insulated 660-gallon hot water storage tanks 6 Mazdon solar collectors for domestic hot water and home heating 4 masonry heaters Highly sophisticated online control system Super-insulated building envelopes (R40, R60) and radiant floor heating in Farmhouse and Energy Barn

The system is also engineered to accept

3 additional Tarm boilers 5 additional 660-gallon hot water tanks Ground source heat pump using surplus renewable electricity for heating water during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) 10 additional Mazdon solar collectors, covering the south face of the Energy Barn

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Energy Efficiency & Conservation | Energy efficiency and conservation are essential components

Similarly, the super-insulated walls (R40) and ceilings (R60) in

for capturing the value of a renewable energy system. The new

the Farmhouse and Energy Barn are an essential component of

Farmstead buildings use daylighting, compact fluorescent

the heating system. Thick adobe and concrete floors radiate heat

and LED bulbs, passive refrigeration and heating, and efficient

and naturally drive convection from their thermal mass. Heat

appliances and motors throughout.

recovery ventilation units throughout the Farmhouse transfer the heat from outgoing to incoming air, keeping the air quality high inside its well-insulated envelope. Finally, a web-interfaced, sophisticated control system directs heat to occupied rooms to further conserve energy. This online control system can be accessed, monitored, and controlled from anywhere in the world.

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Permaculture Orchard | The Farmstead at SHO has been meticulously designed as a largely self-fertilizing organic fruit, nut, and fuel orchard with ample space for large annual production gardens. It has been designed around three primary principles:

Food System The food system at The Farmstead at SHO is one of its greatest and most unique assets. It represents the collaborative visionary effort of Hoffman and Ben Falk of Whole Systems

1 Nutrient density—Choosing plants with the highest

quality of micronutrients (phytochemicals, antioxidants, bioflavonoids).

Design (WSD). Their vision and the guiding framework for

2 Adaptability to climate fluctuation—

the Farmstead’s food system are documented in an invaluable

Using adaptable diverse species, creating microclimates,

piece of work known as the SHO Farm Land Plan & Site

assuring steady water supply, and systematically sequestering

Design Report (Master Plan).

carbon.

The Master Plan includes design details for the future build-

3 Soil health development—The entire food

out of not only the food system, but accessory infrastructure

system is designed for resilience, longevity, vitality, and

as well including an outdoor kitchen, sauna, greenhouses,

beauty; principles which translate directly to ecological

and parking structures.

and human health.

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North

Drawings are from the Master Plan and are illustrative only, not actual.

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The plantings produce abundant blueberries, mushrooms, raspberries, currants, seaberries, apples, elderberries, mulberries, kiwis, schisandra berries, horseradish, hazelnuts, cherries, plums and pears. Hummingbirds, bees and butterflies abound

Food System

in the orchards, along with songbirds, toads and snakes In 2007-2008, the Foundation planted more than 200 varieties

providing natural pest control. The explosion of avian life

(2500+ plants) of fruits and nuts, including pears, plums, quince,

around the gardens has been an unexpected delight.

seaberries, aronia, blueberries, cherries, cold hardy kiwis, walnuts, hazelnuts, hickory, black locust, and pine nuts. It selected cold

Production Features | Vermontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s climate future

hardy varieties adapted to local climate and soils, and built a

will be one of higher temperatures and increased pulsed

series of elaborate windbreaks and microclimates to lengthen

precipitation, all qualities that can be leveraged, with proper

the growing season and protect against high winds, which are

design, for higher perennial food yields and agricultural

prevalent at the site.

productivity. Designing high nutrient, integrated food systems

The orchards are planted on existing north-facing slopes which are ideal for fruit trees, as well as on the terraces north of the Energy Barn which were sculpted using soil excavated from the Energy Barn foundation. The terraced plan allows for windbreak and cold tolerant varieties on the slopes, more heat-loving varieties inside their protective curve, and annuals or low-growing perennials on the flat areas of each terrace. Trees are planted with Russian comfrey, which acts as a living mulch and constant source of fertility when cut and composted in place.

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that anticipate these conditions is imperative for future health, economic resiliency, and food security, especially given that rising precipitation in the Northeast will be matched by expanding drought in the agricultural West. The Farmstead at SHO â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sophisticated perennial food system features nutrient-dense crops (superfoods) and is designed for peak resiliency in the face of these anticipated changes in climate.

A potential production feature of the Farmstead plantings, and perhaps the highest monetary yield, is the ability to sell plant stock from the uniquely adapted varieties to growers in similar climatic BF

zones. An on-site nursery can grow regionally-adapted fruit, nut, fuelwood, and fertilizing trees, shrubs, and other superfood perennials for the ongoing expansion and maintenance of The Farmstead at SHO, as well as other regenerative projects in the region. While this feature has not yet been activated, it has been designed into the Master Plan. As growing demand by municipalities, farmers, landowners, and gardeners for these kinds of locally nursed plants already exceeds the supply available in our region, The Farmstead at SHO is poised to leverage its superfood stock in what is anticipated to become a robust niche industry.

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Conservation Values Surrounded by the vast Foundation landholding and Camelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

maintaining the fields and forests for its animal communities,

Hump State Park, The Farmstead at SHO is part of an intact

such as managing field edges for grouse habitat, and

watershed and protected ecosystem. It is within the largest

establishing a mowing regime to maximize monarch and

swath of designated wild lands in the Northeastern United

bird breeding habitat.

States, a band running from the Adirondack Wilderness through the Green Mountains of Vermont and the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the Maine Woods.

The Foundation and Farmstead lands are part of the Winooski Watershed. Water on the site drains into the Huntington River, which flows north into the Winooski

The Farmstead and Foundation lands are rich in diverse

River, which in turn empties into Lake Champlain. Lake

natural communities and native species. Their ecological features

Champlain flows north into the St. Lawrence River, the

and plant communities have been mapped, and breeding birds,

largest outflowing freshwater system on the planet.

dragonflies, and prime wildlife habitats have been surveyed with the goal of integrating this knowledge into management practices, as well as the design and function of the building core. The land is a dedicated wildlife preserve, home to bear, moose, deer, fox, coyote, mink, otter, beaver, bobcat, fisher, weasel, turkey, bobolink, and rabbit. The Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forest Management Plan, with significant input from renowned wildlife biologist Sue Morse, identifies special techniques for 40

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Conservation practices on the property, in addition to those implied by the entire Farmsteadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design, include use of rotational duck foraging for orchard enhancement, employment of a 100 year land use Master Plan and 10 year Forest Management Plan for natural resource use, management and enhancement, and a constructed wetland for biological wastewater treatment.

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The Farmstead at SHO is an iconic demonstration property for what is possible in the food-energy-building sectors. It fuses

The Investment

traditional and contemporary building design with craft construction practices, features a state-of-the-art expandable

Emerging Asset Class | Sustainable & Responsible

renewable energy system, houses a high-nutrient food system

Investing (SRI), which recognizes that corporate responsibility

that was designed for resiliency and climate change, enjoys

and societal concerns are valid parts of an investment decision,

plentiful water, and is free of flood risks. Its value as an

accounted for an estimated $8.72 trillion out of $40.3 trillion

educational resource and convening space for the international

under professional management in the U.S. as of 2016.

community is well-established. Its value as a resource for

A Socially Responsible Property Investment (SRPI) is an emerging asset class of SRI, and includes any real estate development, management or investment practices that goes

regional food and health markets is significant and untapped. As such, The Farmstead at SHO is a Socially Responsible Property Investment in every way.

beyond minimum legal requirements to achieve a positive

For these reasons, The Farmstead at SHO cannot be priced

environmental or social impact at a market rate of financial

based on comparables, for we know of no other real estate asset

return. The projects and investment strategies of a SRPI should

that would qualify for comparison. While the property has great

focus on the creation of long-term value across the triple

potential for multi-use income generation, it does not have cash

bottom lineâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;people, planet and profit. Features of a SRPI

flow history from which to derive an ask price. Â However, the site

include green buildings, contribution to more sustainable

is unique, the buildings relatively new, and the systems robust

communities, and fighting climate change.

and visionary. As such, the ask price reflects a discounted cost to reproduce The Farmstead at SHO as it is, where it is, today.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Reproduction Cost | The Farmstead at SHO â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ask price is based on the following presentday estimated reproduction costs: Farmhouse $5,025,000 Energy Barn

2,775,000

Studio Barn

275,000

Caretakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Residence

215,000

Energy System Food System Wastewater Disposal System

1,140,000 810,000 40,000

Earthwork 635,000 Infrastructure total

10,915,000

Land 1,500,000 Present-Day Estimated Reproduction Cost Total

12,415,000

BB 2009

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Multi-yield forestry See mycoforestry report

Biotecture Kid Spaces

Living sculptures of willow and birch become playgrounds amid the interior gardens.

Forest edge is planted to enhance wildlife habitat, biological productivity and perennial crop yields.

The Investment

East and southeasterly windbreaks Pond farming: Wetland plants Heat-loving plants buffering Wildlife habitat Fish production Swimming Light

“The SHO Farm Project represents a landscape with the highest possibilities for developing a cold climate agriculture that helps to reverse climate change, build

Restored stream course

topsoil rapidly, filter water, improve

See pond plan and r Forest to inner farm access

wildlife habitat, and enhance other ecosystem services while offering perpetual yields with ever-decreasing dependence

Floating plant islan

M p li

on off site resources. SHO Farm has been designed and is developing to do all of this while offering potent, nutrient-dense food yields, which are becoming ever more important to human health in the 21st

Forest landing Logs, mushrooms, understory crops

Century. SHO Farm is showcasing the

On berm are birdfeeders, wildflowers, and green- manure cover crops for fertilizing intensive gardens.

Coldest zone in inner gardens: summer tenting platforms mushroom cultivation soundscape source in gorge

most important possibilities for modeling agriculture after the fecundity of natural ecosystems.”

– Ben Falk, Whole Systems Design author of SHO Farm’s Master Plan P

Drawing (R) is from the Master Plan and is illustrative only, not actual. 44

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Pasture nutrient production for intensive beds re do m

i n an t

w i n d s

Fruit tree islands: Plum, pear, persimmon, apple, Typ. Windward vegetation: Nut pines, abies, seaberry, Typ.

Pasture

Snow deposition

Windbreak Section (Typ.)

Shelterbelts filter and deflect winds with a combination of evergreen and deciduous shrubs and trees. Groves of sensitive fruit trees thrive in wind eddies.

Forest-field edge soften increased in biodiversit masting trees and nitrog shrub and tree planting

Heirloom orchard of heritage varieties

Upper farm road

Existing hedgerow

Beehives Shaded pergola parking Pavilion Li

Suburban edible yard

vi ng fen

Regenerated brook

Trailhead to outer property

Zone 5 water gardens/ nursery Stair/stage for courtyard music

report

Residential courtyard Nursery Light farm work

Orchard-pasture See Orchard-Pasture plan and report

Orchard parking

nds

Micro-hydro outlet into plunge pool next to earth-bermed and iving-roofed sauna Li

n g

ned and ty through gen-fixing gs.

Main public entry via existing roadway

Chicken coop

Farm processing facility, heat & electrical production, residences

Urban food garden

Shaded parking

Main house

Intensive gardens

Cattle guard

im al p athw ay

Apartment parking Constructed wetland

and roa dw

Evergreen windbreak

Existing tree peninsula expanded upon for wind protection

Shaded parking under pergola

Animal fencing Future agricultural barn site

Animal crossing

Passive solar greenhouses Animal shelter

Nutrient production and pasture zone: Nitrogen-fixing covers and shrubs grown for intensive garden beds.

Shoulder parking

Earth Asset Partnership, LP To Huntington Center and lower fields

Today, Birdseye is able to bring its expertise to clients at notable cost savings, 20%± according to Converse. Without the learning curve discount factored in, someone looking to re-create The Farmstead at SHO today could expect to spend $13.5 million. As such, there is a significant cost savings to the person

The Investment

undertaking a project like this today, which is reflected in the reproduction cost figures. While some of the cost savings Birdseye Building Company was the general contractor for

reflect diminished costs for solar PV, a simple consequence

The SHO Farm Project. It was, by co-founder Jim Converse’s

of the movement of that particular renewable energy

own admission, a project unlike anything the company had ever

technology into the mainstream and associated governmental

done before. Birdseye’s understanding of, and now expertise in,

subsidies, it is largely reflective of professional learning curve

green design and construction is the result of its participation

cost savings. Regardless, the sum total of the cost savings cannot

in the project. The learning curve of all project participants

be overlooked.

was quite steep at the time, and the associated cost born by the Foundation.

Additionally, it is important to appreciate the ready-to-use value of coming to The Farmstead at SHO in its current state.

“The SHO Farm Project offered Birdseye

The new owner will be able to enjoy and use the Farmstead

a unique and perhaps once in a career

immediately. The food system is producing and continues to

opportunity. Every building material used was rigorously evaluated for

mature, which is the result of years of work and careful tending.

environmental impact before it could

The time savings of the roughly 4 years it took to complete

be used. The significance of the experience

construction, complete the food system earthwork, complete

gained on such a project cannot be

phase one planting per the Master Plan, and another 10 years

overvalued.”

– Jim Converse, Birdseye Building Co.

in food system maturation and production, also cannot be overlooked. While it is difficult to place a dollar amount on these features, it is easy to agree that they have value that must be factored in to the overall price of The Farmstead at SHO.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Natural Environment Water | Streams, both permanent and intermittent, as well as springs are common throughout much of the terrain, some of which flow into the Farmstead and are held by a constructed pond east of the main house. A stream restoration bed has been created and planted, and can act as a significant water feature via reconnection to its source stream. On

enjoy an assured perennial flow of surface and ground water

Foundation land, there are many groundwater seeps that

from the elevations above into the compound and its plantings.

contribute abundant water to numerous, small, open and

The Farmstead’s gently sloping northwardtopography lends

forested wetlands. Seepage areas have been observed from

itself to the creation of small terraced ponds, or swale plantings,

the highest saddle on the east to low-lying flats in the western

that can capture rainwater for stabilized release to trees,

third of the Foundation’s land. These frequently are either

reduced nutrient runoff, and increased groundwater infiltration,

within streamside areas or form the headwaters of streams.

creating a buffer against droughty summer months. The

The north facing slope and bowled areas of the Farmstead

Farmstead’s eastern edge features a small stream feeding directly into Brush Brook, which in turn forms part of the northern boundary of the Farmstead holding.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Berm

Main house gardens

Sauna Pond

Warmest zone on property Garden beds and warm-weather fruit trees

Path from courtyard Future greenhouse Footpath to sauna

Footbridge Garden cart bridge

Small pool

Outdoor shelter

Cascade into regenerated brook

Biotecture areas

Mixed evergreen and deciduous windbreak

Regenerated brook At the edge of forest and gardens and above the main waterfall, views from this spot will be among the most spectacular on the property.

Drawing is from the Master Plan and is illustrative only, not actual.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Natural Environment

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

cold winds

Current Residential Area Fi el d School

Acc es

s Ro

pR Camelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hum

oad

Fi el d s o od

road

Wind | SHO Farm is more affected by winds than most of the

surrounding region. The bottomlands of the northern portionWARME of the property are subject to cooling, down-valley (katabatic) winds, especially in the later half of the night and early parts of the morning before the sun reaches into the Brush Brook Valley.

Fi el d

The main residential zone is exposed to the strong, predominant westerly winds of the region, as well as arctic winds from the north. The property is also subject to abnormally intense southerly wind events. Such notable wind activity required that the food

COLDE system design include windbreaks to help achieve project goals of biological productivity.

warm winds

Drawing is from the Master Plan .

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Natural Environment Microclimate | Another important natural environment consideration for Falk’s work was the property’s microclimate. According to Falk, SHO Farm has a generally north facing aspect, with a limited number of areas that are warm relative to the surrounding region. Such orientation challenges biological productivity. Food production, nutrient cycling, outdoor living and other high value goals were facilitated by creating south

The Foundation Land | The Foundation-retained

facing, warmer microclimates. Developing warm microclimates

acreage enfolding The Farmstead at SHO straddles the

was the primary design strategy for The SHO Farm Project,

western flank of Mount Ira Allen. The property lies just beneath

which was done by grading, placement and form of buildings,

one of the highest and wildest ridgelines in the Green

vegetation arrangements, and proper massing.

Mountains. Along this ridge runs the 273-mile Long Trail, the famous footpath that stretches the length of the state from Massachusetts to Canada. Camel’s Hump, the highest roadless mountain in Vermont, and the state’s most iconic peak, presides over the site to the northeast. The 18,153-acre Camel’s Hump State Park, the largest park in the state, borders the Foundation’s property to the east. The statewide backcountry ski path, the 300-mile Catamount Trail, passes through the northeastern edge of the Foundation’s land.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Land Use Regulations | The Farmstead at SHO use and

Local Regulations | On a local level, the Town of

development-related activities may be governed by local, and

Huntington has adopted zoning and subdivision regulations.

possibly State and/or federal, land use regulations. The particular

The Zoning Administrator issues zoning permits, and is

use that a purchaser is interested in pursuing will help to inform

available to answer zoning questions and, when necessary,

the proper land use regulatory framework. An overview of

assist an applicant in preparing zoning applications.

potentially relevant land use regulations is outlined below, however a prospective purchaser is advised to seek legal counsel on land use issues as part of their due diligence.

The town is divided into several zoning districts. Within each district are permitted uses and conditional uses. Permitted uses require a zoning permit, while conditional uses require approval by the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The Town does require site plan approval for select activities. Per the Townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s subdivision regulations, the division of land requires a zoning permit from the Administrative Officer. This regulation details the process of division-related activities.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

State Regulations | In addition to the relevant local regulatory framework, there are four noteworthy State land use regulations. The jurisdiction and/or application of any State land use regulations over proposed projects on Teal Farm Center

Wetland Rules | Vermont’s Water Resources Board

should be discussed with legal counsel.

adopted the Vermont Wetland Rules to protect wetlands considered so significant as to merit protection. Per the Rules,

Act 250 | Vermont’s Land Use and Development Plans law,

significant wetlands are defined as “any wetland which the Board

most commonly referred to as Act 250, prohibits a person

determines to be a Class 1 or Class 2 wetland.” Significant

from selling, offering for sale, commencing construction, or

wetlands, and their associated buffers, are regulated by the

commencing development when it is determined that there is

Wetland Rules. Development of a Class 1 or 2 wetland, or within

Act 250 jurisdiction without first obtaining a land use permit.

its buffer zone, is prohibited without a conditional use approval.

Act 250’s jurisdiction depends upon whether a proposed

There is a 50-foot buffer from all Class 2 wetlands. Prior to

activity falls within the statutory definition of development and/

undertaking a project, it is prudent to engage the services of a

or subdivision. To determine whether a proposed project is

qualified wetland delineator to ensure that no illegal wetland

subject to Act 250, it is important to know whether the town

impact occurs.

in which the proposed project is located is an Act 250 “1 acre” or a “10 acre” town. Huntington, because it has both zoning and

Wastewater Disposal Regulations | By and large,

subdivision regulations, is considered an Act 250 “10 acre” town.

jurisdiction over wastewater disposal and/or potable water systems is handled by the State of Vermont, Agency of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Conservation, Wastewater Management Division’s Environmental Protection Rules—Chapter 1—Wastewater Disposal and Potable Water Supply Regulations. A State-issued wastewater disposal permit for up to 10 bedrooms will convey with the Farm Center. Earth Asset Partnership, LP

her annual gross income from the business of farming as that term is defined in Regulation 1.175-3 issued under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Submission of federal income tax returns are required to substantiate the claim of being a qualified “farmer”. There are no acreage exceptions for forest land.

Land Use Current Use | Vermont’s Use Value Appraisal Program, most commonly known as Current Use, allows landowners who practice long-term forest management and agricultural use to enroll their lands and qualifying farm buildings in the program. Enrolled lands are appraised, for property tax calculation purposes, based on working land value as opposed to fair market (development) value. Eligible farm buildings

Regarding farm buildings, eligible farm buildings include all farm buildings and other farm improvements which are actively used by a farmer as part of a farming operation, are owned by a farmer or leased to a farmer under a written lease for a term of three years or more, and are situated on land that is enrolled in a Use Value Appraisal Program or on a housesite adjoining enrolled land.

are exempt from all property taxes. Enrollment in Current

When lands are enrolled as forest land, there are several

Use affords landowners notable property tax savings.

sub-categories, including “open/idle ag”and ESTA’s, or

Regarding land, as a general rule, the program requires 25 contiguous acres of land classified as either forest or in active agricultural use. If an owner wishes to enroll less than 25 acres of agricultural land, they must be able to demonstrate that the land is actively used for agricultural purposes and (1) be used by the owner who is a qualified “farmer”; (2) leased to and actively used by a qualified “farmer” under a written 3 year lease; or (3) earn at least $2,000/year from the sale of farm crops. A “farmer” is defined, in part, as a person who earns at least one-half of his/

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

ecologically sensitive treatment areas. Landowners are allowed to classify up to 20% of total enrolled forested acreage as “open/idle ag”.

The Foundation currently has 1,282.1 acres enrolled in Current

When land is enrolled in the program, the State attaches a

Use as forest land. Of the total, 116.1 acres (9% of the total)

permanent lien to the deed. If enrolled land is voluntarily

are classified as “open/idle ag”, including the portions of

withdrawn, managed contrary to an approved management

Offering 1 and Offering 2 that are shown on the approved Forest

plan, or developed in such a way as to violate the program’s

Management Plan as “Ag” land. The Foundation also leases all

requirements, a land use change tax is levied on the developed

of its land and buildings to a qualified farmer, and thus qualifies

portion and it is discontinued from enrollment.

to have its farm buildings enrolled in the program. Offering 1 currently contains 5 enrolled farm buildings, the most notable being the Energy Barn - which houses, among other farm activities, the duck sanctuary and cidery.

A Notice of Change of Ownership form and Use Value Appraisal Application must be completed and filed within 30 days of conveyance with Property Valuation and Review. Should any portion of the enrolled lands be removed from Current Use,

It is important for prospective purchasers to understand that the

there will be a withdrawal penalty assessed, which shall be the

land included in Offering 1 and 2 can remain in Current Use, but

sole responsibility of the purchaser.

may require enrollment under different eligibility requirements. As for the enrolled farm buildings situated on Offering 1, unless the purchaser is a qualified farmer, or establishes a lease of at least three years in duration with a qualified farmer, those buildings will be removed from Current Use and their fair market values included in the calculation of property taxes.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

latter part of an experiment to breed some vigor back into domestic sheep). The muskoxen grazed in a fenced-in meadow that stretched from the main house south to the currently open

History

upper meadow. They had access to ponds near the house and

Past Ownership | The history of farming in Vermont began about 200 years ago. But, unlike most of the land in Vermont, SHO Farm has had a more unusual and interesting 20th century history than the typical upland farm. In 1951, John J. Teal, Jr. purchased three long-abandoned hill farms for the purpose of domesticating muskoxen when no native arctic site had been made available. The intent of his project was to provide an indigenous economic resource for peoples of the far north (Inuit) through the utilization of the muskoxen’s cashmere-like wool. Teal named the farm “Tunturi.” The main house, barns, and fields were restored in preparation for the first calves, which were captured in the Canadian Thelon in 1954. In addition to muskoxen, through the years there were beef and dairy cattle, sheep, goats, horses, chickens and geese, working dogs, and herds of Himalayan tahr and mouflons (the

in the upper meadow. The adjoining Mitchell Farm, now the entry fields along Camels Hump Road that border the village of Huntington Center, was purchased by Teal for its large barn and hayfields, as well as for its additional grazing land. That purchase coalesced the parcels into a farm of 1,300± acres. The Mitchell Farm included an active sugarbush, which was taken over by the Taft family until 2004. The Mitchell barn, located to the west of the property’s stone entryway, was, along with several other landmark barns, destroyed by an arsonist in the mid-1960s. The muskox project was moved to Alaska in 1964. Breeding was halted, and the Huntington muskoxen lived into their 20s. Tunturi stayed in active agriculture with the remaining farm animals until 1984, and the forest was under continuous management by Bill Hall, and then Joe Nelson and Brendan Moore. The farm remained in the Teal family until 1999.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Historically, almost the entirety of the level areas and gentle

Current Ownership | Today, SHO Farm is owned by

to moderate slopes were cleared for crops and pasture. Land

the Foundation for a Sustainable Future, a 501(c)(3) non-profit

that was apparently too steep or rocky to be valuable as fields

founded by Melissa Hoffman. The Foundation purchased the

shows a history of use as woodland, pasture, sugarbush, and

farm with 556± acres in October 2003, and then purchased

timberland. John Teal rejuvenated some pastures and hayfields,

the adjoining southern 740± acres in 2004. Hoffman was

but other formerly cleared lands were allowed to continue

captivated by the watershed’s unusual beauty and recognized

their succession back to forest. Today, the re-assembled 1,251±

the property as a perfect place to begin her Foundation’s

acres surrounding the Farmstead features a mix of forest

experiment in progressive building, energy, and agriculture design.

that has never been cleared, forest and shrub land of old field origin, and maintained fields. The tapping of sugar maples for syrup production was abundant on the property, with old stone sugarhouse foundations evident throughout the woods.

She has since completely rebuilt the original Farmhouse and its additions, added a 14,661 square-foot heated, multi-use barn with an extensive renewable heat and energy system, and planted a diverse 8-acre permaculture fruit and nut orchard.

In recent decades, silvicultural practices have included commercial timber harvests and wildlife habitat management. Specifically, forestry activities have mostly been single tree, group selection and small patch cuts. Several small wildlife openings have NT

been created, and apple trees released as habitat enhancement projects. A well-designed network of woods roads is in place on the surrounding Foundation-retained property, which is used for recreation and land stewardship purposes.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Recreational Attributes The Farmstead at SHO provides an excellent base from which to pursue many different recreational activities. The 1± acre spring-fed pond provides a nice place for summer dips. For hikers, a primary trailhead to Camel’s Hump summit and the Long Trail is a short 2.5 miles away. From there, one can hike to the summit, or begin a week long journey along the Long Trail. Lake Champlain, a 490 square mile natural freshwater lake, is 40 minutes from the property. Framed by New York’s Adirondack Mountains to the west, and Vermont’s Green Mountains to the east, Lake Champlain is a favorite spot of sailors, kayakers and fishermen. There are ample public access facilities to allow for easy parking and boat put-in. From the property, runners, mountain and road bikers can enjoy endless miles of backcountry trails or winding paved roads. Downhill skiers can enjoy the challenging Mad River Glen trails, or the more varied slopes at Sugarbush—both within a 20-minute drive. Stowe Mountain is within an hour’s drive. Bird-watching, stargazing, swimming, and wildlife/nature photography are abundantly available within the Farmstead itself. 62

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Area Information Vermont | Located in the New England region of the

The 2016 U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported

northeastern United States, with a population of 623,657,

Vermont’s gross state product to be $31 billion, of that 19.7%

Vermont is known as “the Green Mountain State” because of

was made up of finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing.

the long spine of forested mountains extending the length of

Agriculture contributes $2.6 billion to the state’s economy.

its north-south axis, dividing the east side of the state from the

Over 78% of the land area of the state is forested, and over 85%

west. Because of this mountainous topography, Vermont is

of that area is non-industrial, private forestland owned by

filled with small towns carved by valley waterways, with gentler

individuals or families. The remaining land area is covered in

fields and fertile soils in the Lake Champlain and Connecticut

meadow, lakes, ponds and swampy wetlands.

River Valleys. Lake Champlain, the 6th largest body of fresh water in the United States, forms half of Vermont’s western border, which it shares with New York. The Connecticut River runs the full length of the state’s eastern border.

Over the past two centuries, logging has fallen off as overcutting and the exploitation of other northern forests shifted attention from Vermont. The migration of the dairy industry to the Midwest resulted in a re-growth of most of Vermont’s forests, except for the maintained upland fields and pastures still dotting its hillsides. Dairy farming is the primary source of agricultural income, but that is changing. The number of dairy farms has declined more than 85% since 1847. As of 2011, there were 583 organic farms in Vermont.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

An important and growing part of Vermont’s agricultural economy is the manufacture and sale of specialty foods, artisan cheeses, breads, beer and spirits, apples and orchard products, grass-fed meats and novelty items trading on the Vermont brand, which the State manages and promotes. Examples of these specialty exports include Cabot Cheese, the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, microbrews like Long Trail, Magic Hat, Otter Creek, and Switchback, Whistle Pig Rye Whiskey, Burton Snowboards, King Arthur Flour, and Ben and Jerry’s

Demographics Vermont

total population 623,657

Chittenden County

total population 161,382

Ice Cream. Vermont is probably most well known for, and is

Town of Huntington total population 1,938

the leading producer of, maple syrup in the United States.

population density 42.8

Vermont draws tourists and second homeowners from Boston,

male population 50.2%

New York, and beyond, who come to enjoy winter skiing, autumn

female population 49.8%

color, and the typically cooler summer temperatures.

median age 41.1

square miles 38.1

total acres 24,384

Burlington is Vermont’s largest city with a 2016 population of 42,260. There is one national park in the state, MarshBillings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock, two recreational foot trails, the Long Trail and a section of the Appalachian Trail, a recreational cross-country trail, the Catamount Trail, and two primary interstate highways, I-89 and I-91. The The Farmstead at SHO is adjacent to Camel’s Hump State Park, the Long Trail and the Catamount Trail, and is 15 minutes by car from Highway I-89.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Climate

Green Mountains Biophysical Region, which is characterized

Warm, humid summers Cold winters Spring mud season Early, mild summer Hot Augusts Fall foliage

by a continental climate. It has cooler temperatures and greater

Average annual rainfall

34”

Average annual snowfall

77”

Humid continental climate

Area Information Climate | The Farmstead is wholly within the Northern

precipitation than in the Champlain Valley to the west, and the Northern Vermont Piedmont to the east.

Average annual low temperature 35°

Huntington Center averages 87.75cm (34.55”) of precipitation

Average annual high temperature 54°

annually, with the greatest amounts in June through September

Average annual temperature

(1944 to 1967 data); that is an average of 3.3cm (1.3”) more than in Burlington. Snowfall in Huntington Center averages 209cm (82.3”); nearly 30cm (12”) greater than the Burlington average. Snow typically covers the ground from late November through early April. With a century of climate change ahead of us, higher ambient temperatures, increased precipitation, longer growing seasons, and increased frequency of winter thaws are all conditions forecasted for the Northeast.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

45°

Average summer (June-Sept) temp. 50 - 75° Average winter (Dec-March) temp. 10 - 30°

Vermont has 23 colleges and universities, which include one research university, 6 masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s universities, an art school, a culinary school, a law school, a medical school, and a number of undergraduate associates and baccalaureate colleges. Vermont Law School, a small private institution in central Vermont, has an environmental law program that was ranked #1 in 2012 by U.S. News & World Report for an unprecedented fourth year in a row. Notable institutions, most within a short drive to SHO

Education | Public education is highly valued in Vermont.

Farm Center, include the University of Vermont (in Burlington),

Given the rural nature of the state, however, middle and high

Middlebury College (in Middlebury), Landmark College

schools often serve several communities.

(in Putney), Dartmouth College (in Hanover, New Hampshire),

The Town of Huntington is in the Chittenden East School

and the New England Culinary Institute (in Montpelier).

District. Brewster Pierce Memorial School covers grades K-4,

Vermont has a strong culture of artists, musicians, and writers,

and is in Huntington Center. Camels Hump Middle School

and is home to renowned Bread Loaf Writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference and

covers grades 5-8, and is in the neighboring town of Richmond.

the Wildbranch Writers Workshop, both held annually.

Mount Mansfield Union High School covers grades 9-12,

Vermont Studio Center and art residency program near Johnson

and is located approximately one half hour from Huntington,

State College lies just north of The Farmstead at SHO.

in the community of Jericho. In addition to the public schools, Chittenden County offers 8 private high schools, one of which is an all-boys school and two of which are special education schools. There are 26 private elementary schools as well, two of which are special education schools.

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

montreal

jay peak

plattsburgh N W

lake champlain

long trail hiking system

vermont

S burlington city arts firehouse gallery microbreweries echo lake aquarium & science center flynn center for the performing arts lake champlain maritime festival discover jazz festival vermont brewers festival burlington wine & food festival lake champlain sailing cruises university of vermont champlain college

burlington

shelburne museum shelburne vineyards

stowe

audubon center camelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hump summit

the farmstead at sho

montpelier mad river glen

sugarbush 89

middlebury college performing arts series

new york

vermont law school

rutland

woodstock

new hampshire

Medical | Fletcher Allen and University of Vermont Medical Center, in nearby Burlington, is an excellent, full service medical facility affiliated with the University of Vermont’s

School of Medicine. It is a close 40-minute drive from The

Camel’s Hump summit

Farmstead at SHO. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, in Lebanon New Hampshire, is 1.5 hours from the property.

Dining | The Vermont dining scene has evolved dramatically over the last decade, bringing to the table the local flavors from

Local Culture & Landmarks

Long Trail hiking system Shelburne Farms Burlington City Arts Firehouse Gallery Audubon Center

its artisan growers and suppliers. Leveraging the Vermont brand,

Shelburne Museum

talented chefs, microbrewers, spirit-makers and vintners make

Lake Champlain

leaving home well worth the trip.

Vineyards

From the Farmstead at SHO, dining on well-prepared cuisine in a

Microbreweries

warm, friendly ambiance is an easy car ride away. 15 minutes down

ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center

the road is the neighboring town of Richmond, home to the

Flynn Center for the Performing Arts

Kitchen Table Bistro, One Radish Eatery, Stone Corral Brewery,

Lake Champlain Maritime Festival

and Sweet Simone’s bakery. Another 10 minutes puts you in the

Discover Jazz Festival

heart of downtown Burlington, where your selection of ethnic

Vermont Brewers Festival

foods expands to include, among others, Asiana Noodle Shop, El Cortijo, Trattoria Delia, Leunig’s Bistro, Hen of the Wood, Revolution Kitchen, Pingala, New Moon Cafe, and American Flatbread and Veritas for wood-fired oven pizza. If breakfast is your thing, try Penny Cluse or Magnolia. Nearly all restaurants

Burlington Wine & Food Festival Vermont International Film Festival Lake Champlain Sailing Cruises Middlebury College Performing Arts Series

offer a selection of Vermont’s award-winning microbrews Hill Farmstead, Lawson’s, Heady Topper, Frost, hard ciders Shaftsbury, Fable Farm, and Windfall, and spirits - Whistlepig whiskey, Caledonia Spirits, and Green Mountain Distillers. You can’t miss…if you must go out. Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

with her clients, the foundation of which is trust and unusually bold transparency.

The Farmstead at SHO is exclusively

About Earth Asset

represented and offered for sale by Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Shawn’s passion is collaborating with clients on planning for their globally important land assets. “Pairing people and properties to achieve the best conservation and regenerative use

The Company | Earth Asset Partnership, LP is an innovative real estate brokerage and counseling firm founded by Ms. Shawn M. Smith in 2005. Shawn holds a JD and Master of Studies in Environmental

while optimizing quality of life is what i love doing.”

–Ms. Shawn M. Smith,

Founder & Owner | Broker & Counselor

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Law from Vermont Law School-one of the nation’s premier

To learn more about Earth Asset and its unique services,

environmental law schools, is an expert in land conservation,

please visit EarthAsset.com.

and has spent 19 years advising clients about how to protect and grow their real estate portfolio. She is licensed as a real estate broker and certified general appraiser. This combination of skills assures that important details aren’t overlooked in the often complex process of buying, selling, or planning for valuable real estate assets. Shawn is able to spot creative opportunities and catch potentially costly problems not typically visible from the perspective of any single profession, affording Earth Asset’s clients tremendous advantage. Shawn brings a rare thoroughness to her work, knows how to define and defend value, and forms long-term relationships

Earth Asset Partnership, LP

Earth Asset Partnership, LP, and the listing broker, exclusively represent the Seller, not prospective buyers, in the marketing, negotiating and sale of the property, unless otherwise disclosed. The listing broker, nonetheless, has an ethical and legal obligation to prospectivebuyers to: disclose all material facts pertaining to the property known to the agent; be honest and not knowingly give false or misleading information; account for all money and property received from or on behalf of either party; and comply with all state and federal laws related to the practice of real estate. Offering is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by Seller. The information presented was secured from sources deemed to be reliable, but whose accuracy we cannot guarantee. Prospective buyers should verify all information to their satisfaction. Prospective buyers should also be aware that the photographs in this prospectus may have been digitally enhanced. design InterrobangDesign.com photography BB: Birdseye Building BF: Ben Falk GH: Gary Hall NT: Nuna Teal All other photos by Shawn M. Smith and Melissa Hoffman selected text excerpted from Ecological Description of the SHO Farm, Huntington, Vermont, prepared for the Foundation for a Sustainable Future, by Marc Lapin and Brett Engstrom; SHO Farm Master Plan by Whole Systems Design