Mariah

Farming experience

6-10 years experience

Currently farming

No

Highest level of farming experience

Agricultural degree or training program

Description of farming experience

I was born and raised in Vermont and have around 10 years of hands-on experience in farming, I have worked across a variety of farms, specializing in organic and sustainable practices. My expertise spans vegetable and flower cultivation, as well as livestock care, including chickens, cows, and pigs. I have a deep commitment to organic methods, having earned a certificate in Sustainable Organic Farming from the University of Vermont (UVM). In addition to this I also managed a 7 acre Hemp farm and ran my own gardening business focusing on organic practices with both.

Farming plans

Tenure arrangement desired

Farm transfer

Tenure arrangement description

I am seeking a lease-to-own property, if the current farmer would like to remain involved, I'm very open to that! I'm looking for a farm where I can apply my extensive experience in organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices. With over 10 years in the industry, I have a deep understanding of vegetable and flower cultivation, livestock care. My goal is to cultivate a thriving, environmentally conscious flower farm while having the opportunity to invest in a long-term farming property.

I’m looking for a property that aligns with my commitment to sustainability and organic practices, where I can grow and expand my operations in harmony with the land.

Planned farm enterprise: Primary

Cut flowers

Planned farm enterprises: Others

Perennials/Orchard, Vegetables

Farm enterprises description

I'm looking for a space with room to grow and expand. I would like to specialize in the cultivation of organic high-quality cut flowers, providing fresh, locally-grown blooms for both retail and direct-to-consumer markets. With a focus on a diverse range of flower varieties, emphasizing seasonal availability and premium quality, all grown using sustainable and organic methods.

I would like the opportunity to expand to include orchards, PYO berries and a space for on farm events for the community and rental spaces for revenue that can go back into the farm.

Written business plan

In progress

Business planning description

I would like to focus on the cultivating organic cut flowers with sales generated primarily through CSA subscriptions and local farmers markets. I would like to grow to include veggies, PYO berries and orchards and produce value added products such as jams, baked good, dried flowers and handmade paper cards. These could be sold as an add on to CSA subscriptions as well as at local farmers markets and a farmstand if applicable to the area.

I'd also like to create a space for the community can come together and offer a venue for weddings and retreats in the future.

Farmer housing needed

Yes

Water source needed

Yes

Farm infrastructure needed

Barn/farm buildings
Greenhouses/high tunnels
Electricity/power

Description of infrastructure needed

My primary needs are greenhouses, high tunnels, wash/ pack facility and cold storage. I'd also love to have a farm stand if the location makes sense for one!

I'd love to have access to a barn to use for potential revenue sources in the future such as, wedding event, retreats and community events. Ideally it would be large enough to have a space for a studio and cafe.

Access to equipment needed

Yes

Description of equipment needed

I would love to have access to equipment if available but plan to use a BCS and hand tools in the first couple years.

Additional information

I would love to find a lease to own property that has been using organic and sustainable practices. I am aware that the cut flower market isn't driven by the consumers focus on organic practices however they are very important to me.

As someone who has grown up in Vermont my goal is to farm and protect the land I'm on as best I can for not only myself but for future generations. It's important to me to use sustainable organic farming practices and really create a space for community to come together.