How can farmers thrive in extreme climates while focusing on storage crops and winter sales?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Sam Knapp who is the co-owner and primary farmer at Offbeet Farm in Fairbanks, Alaska. With a master’s degree in plant ecology and years of experience on vegetable farms, Sam built his farm from the ground up to focus entirely on storage crops and winter sales through a winter CSA and local markets.

Tune in to hear how Sam navigates permafrost and water access as well as the unique challenges and rewards of farming in a cold climate.

Episode Highlights:

• From Physics to Farming: What led Sam to leave engineering for agriculture? [1:27]
• Alaskan Soil Challenges: What has Sam learned about permafrost and soil conditions? [7:50]
• Storage Solutions: How does Offbeet Farm design its facilities to optimize crop preservation? [22:02]
• Carrot Longevity: What allows carrots to remain fresh for so long in storage? [27:07]
• Pest Control Strategies: How does Sam manage vermin on the farm? [30:27]
• Writing Beyond the Root Cellar: What inspired Sam to write his book, and what’s inside? [37:17]

Don’t miss Sam’s insights into farming in one of the most extreme climates in the U.S. and his innovative approach to creating a sustainable, hand-powered farm that feeds the Fairbanks community year-round.

About the Guest:

Sam Knapp hails from northern Wisconsin but now lives and farms in Fairbanks, Alaska. After earning his chops working for others in Sweden, Alaska, and Wisconsin, Sam ran a part-time farm in the UP of Michigan for three years before moving to Alaska and building Offbeet Farm from the ground up. Offbeet Farm is a 1-acre veggie farm focus entirely on storage crops and wintertime sales, selling primarily through a winter-CSA but also some winter markets and wholesale.

Connect with Sam Knapp:

• Website: Offbeet Farm
• Facebook: Like on Facebook
• Book: Beyond the Root Cellar

 

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