How can small-scale farmers maximize productivity while staying true to their values?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Sara Krohn and Sam Odin, owners of Village Farmstead, a USDA-Certified Organic farm in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Farming on just one acre, they prioritize human-scale farming, soil health, and a deep connection to their community.

Sara and Sam are also part of a 14-acre housing cooperative, where their farm integrates with a broader vision of sustainable living. They rely on hand tools, minimal soil disturbance, and permanent raised beds to create a financially and ecologically sustainable farm.

Tune in to hear how they make it all work while maintaining a thriving, small-scale operation!

 

Episode Highlights:

• Farming Beginnings: How did Sara and Sam get started in farming? [1:39]
• Farm Layout: What is the setup of Village Farmstead? [4:24]
• Soil Fertility: How do they build and maintain soil health? [8:22]
• Weekly Schedule: What does a typical week look like on their farm? [15:25]
• Soil Mix: What do they use for their seed-starting mix? [25:17]
• Community Involvement: How does their workshare and communal living model work? [30:53]
• Favorite Farm Tool: What tool do they rely on the most? [37:02]

Don't miss this episode on how small-scale farmers can maximize productivity, build soil health, and foster community while staying financially and ecologically sustainable!

 

About the Guests:

Village Farmstead is a small-scale, Certified Organic farm located on the bluffs of Lake Michigan, just south of Milwaukee. They specialize in growing nutrient-dense food while minimizing soil disturbance and using sustainable farming techniques. Through their farm and cooperative housing model, Sara and Sam are building a resilient, community-focused food system.

 

📲 Connect with Sara and Sam:

🌎 Website: villagefarmstead.com  📷 Instagram: Follow @villagefarmstead  👍 Facebook: Like Village Farmstead

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP. 

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