Co-Applicant / Spouse Name
Samanth Hood
Please describe your past and/or present farming experience
I graduated NCAHS in Walpole, Mass in 1982. During my time there I worked at the schools animal production enterprises which included dairy, hogs, sheep as well as the production end of forages. After graduation I worked at assorted beef and hog farms and then worked construction as a heavy equipment operator. In 1987 I became a police officer and am still presently doing that with a 2021 retirement date in mind. I continued farming on small scale part time as owner of High Pine Organic Gardens. Marketing my produce to local farmers markets and restaurants, as well pasture raised turkeys directly to the public. I am presently doing a part-time apprenticeship on a pasture based pig farm. Samantha grew up with horses and we both feel very comfortable being around and working with livestock.
Are you currently farming?
No
Are you interested in connecting with other farmers to explore collocation or collaborative farm ideas?
Yes
Counties being considered
Addison
Bennington
Caledonia
Chittenden
Essex
Franklin
Grand Isle
Lamoille
Orange
Orleans
Rutland
Washington
Windham
Windsor
What is the primary agricultural enterprise you are considering?
Dairy (cows)
What other enterprises are you considering?
Apple/Fruit
Beef
Berries
Dairy (cows)
Grains
Greenhouse
Hay/Forage
Hogs
Livestock
Maple Sugaring
Pasture
Poultry
Row Crops
Vegetables
Total Acres Desired
200.0
Tillable Acres
50.0
Forested Acres
50.0
Acres in Pasture
100.0
Organic
Yes
Farm Structures Needed
Barn(s)
Greenhouses
Milking Facilities
Other Housing
Shop
Storage
Farmhouse Needed
Doesn't matter
Which of the following arrangements are you considering?
Apprentice with a Farm Owner for a Year or More
Lease with Option to Buy
Owner-Financed Sale
Partnership
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.
We are looking specifically at an opportunity to direct market grass fed, pasture raised, meat and dairy products, as well as fruits and vegetables to the consumer. We also envision developing, an agricultural experience through agritourism and opening our farm to the concept of getting to know your farmer and showing the consumer where their food comes from. Growing up I had 2 aspirations (when I grow up) to be a police officer and a farmer. After over 30 years as a cop I am ready to move on to my next one. I have always felt a spiritual connection with the earth and embrace the opportunity to be a steward. We also recognize the relationship between healthy soil and healthy and happy productive animals, to provide nutrient dense healthy food to consumers. This is a very exciting phase of our life. We look forward to exploring and sharing our opportunities with our children and future grandchildren.