Farmer Profile for Eli Hersh

Co-Applicant / Spouse Name

Valerie Woodhouse

Please describe your past and/or present farming experience

Eli and Valerie have spent the last four years leasing land in Fairfax, VT to build Shadow Creek Farm, a certified organic vegetable enterprise, into a strong business that is now ready to expand. With 15 years of combined agricultural experience behind us, we are eager to find the right Vermont farm to call our permanent home.

Are you currently farming?

Yes

Are you interested in connecting with other farmers to explore collocation or collaborative farm ideas?

No

Counties being considered

Addison
Chittenden
Franklin
Grand Isle
Lamoille
Washington
Windsor

What is the primary agricultural enterprise you are considering?

Vegetables

What other enterprises are you considering?

Greenhouse
Livestock
Nursery
Pasture

Total Acres Desired

100.0

Tillable Acres

25.0

Forested Acres

25.0

Acres in Pasture

10.0

Organic

Yes

Farm Structures Needed

Barn(s)

Farmhouse Needed

Yes

Which of the following arrangements are you considering?

Lease with Option to Buy
Owner-Financed Sale
Standard Sale
Work to Own (Gradual Transfer of Responsibility & Farm Assets)

Are you interested in conserved farms?

Yes

Do you have a business plan? Please write an informative description of your vision & goals for your farming future.

Shadow Creek Farm is an organic vegetable farm owned and operated by husband and wife team, Eli Hersh and Valerie Woodhouse. Started as an incubator on leased land in Fairfax, VT, the farm is now in its fourth year of selling fresh, organic produce wholesale to Deep Root Organic Growers Cooperative and locally to restaurants, processors and food co-ops. Shadow Creek Farm will increase sales volume to established markets with a focus on regional wholesale through Deep Root Co-op, as well as expand fresh and value-added offerings to restaurants, food co-ops and processors throughout Vermont. We dedicate ourselves to growing nutritious food with sustainable, organic practices to promote healthy soils, animals, people and communities. We sell unique products to local and regional wholesale markets to bolster the local economy and provide access to high-quality food at a fair price.

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