Misty Meadows Farms

Let’s start by getting this out of the way: eggs have been a challenge to source and keep on the shelves for quite some time. But as famous egghead Albert Einstein once said, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity,” and we at the Co-op are opportunists! 

One excellent outcome of this whole egg hullaballoo is that we found a new local egg supplier: Misty Meadows Farms! Based in Everson, Misty Meadows is a family-owned farm specializing in certified organic, pasture-raised eggs. Founded in 2005 by Melissa and Mark Moeller, over the years, the couple grew their flock to nearly 2,000 birds, sharing eggs with their community along the way.

In 2022, the Moellers decided it was time to hang up their chicken-farming hats, but didn’t want to close down the operation because they cared deeply about continuing to support their community. Luckily, the right person stepped in at the right time—second-generation farmer David Lukens of Grace Harbor Farms. Don’t be surprised if that name rings a bell—we’ve been carrying Grace Harbor products for years, from their milk and yogurt to most recently, their goat cheese spread!

When the Moellers decided to retire, David had only intended to help rehome their farm dogs, Icarus and Cooper, as Grace Harbor needed a little more puppy love around the farm. However, when it became clear that Misty Meadows was struggling to find the right partner to continue their legacy and, thus, was on the verge of closing its doors completely, David took the plunge to not only add two dogs to the mix, but the whole flock, too! With the right ownership in place, Misty Meadows continues to maintain the values and practices that the Moellers instilled at the outset, keeping the farm cruelty-free, sustainable, and family- and community-oriented.

Misty Meadows eggs aren’t your average egg! Pasture-raised and free to graze, as soon as the chickens are old enough to venture into the grass, they’re given constant access to spacious green pastures. Not only are pasture-raised chickens healthier and happier, but they raise eggs that are better for us, too! By allowing chickens to graze, Misty Meadows is providing them with much-needed stimulation that keeps them happier, and growing tastier eggs. According to a Mother Earth News study on Misty Meadows, their eggs have less cholesterol and saturated fat, as well as higher levels of vitamin A, omega-3, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. Happy chickens, healthier humans, and a more sustainable planet, too.

As it relates to taking care of the planet, Misty Meadows is dedicated to utilizing regenerative farming practices and protecting the natural wetlands on their property. Practically, this means regular pasture rotation so chickens can continue to graze without long-term land damage, never using pesticides or harsh chemicals, and removing any animal waste near waterways. Finally, we can’t forget the egg carton—Misty Meadows packaging is made from 100% recycled cardboard.

We anticipate having a consistently stocked egg cooler by mid-May, but in the meantime, you might consider switching to a more local source for not just eggs, but for many of your pantry staples. If the start of the year has taught us anything, it’s the importance of supporting and leaning on our neighbors for provisions that can be produced right here in the Pacific Northwest. And Misty Meadows Farms eggs are a great place to start.