Farmer County: Chester

Entering Farmer #20421

My name is Andrew Wraith. I am the founder of the Ecoculture Project LLC, which is a start-up business looking to pioneer an innovative model for cultivating wild food on nature preserves, which can be harvested in a pick-your-own fashion (i.e., forage-your-own), and be managed using a permit based system (much like hunting and fishing). I’ve been working as the Agroecology Project Coordinator at the Willistown Conservation Trust’s Rushton Farm program for the past few years, while pursuing my Masters in Environmental Studies at the University of Pennsylvania (graduated December 2024). My studies were split between learning nonprofit management tools (finance, governance, fundraising, etc.) and ecology (Soils, wetlands, etc.).

My capstone research project (something I worked on for the duration of my time at Penn) focused on researching and creating a replicable business model for an ecoculture business. This project was the result of a literature review, interviews with practitioners and thought leaders, and from my own hands on experience starting a business and working at a successful CSA farm in Chester County. The result was a 75 page report (the beginnings of a book), a three year budget plan, a website, and a registered LLC.

I am looking to launch my business once either funding is secured, or a favorable land situation is identified (i.e., low-cost enough to justify proceeding without funding).

Entering Farmer #20414

Seeking Partnership to Preserve and Grow Sugars Bridge Farm and Camp Barnyard

Dear PA Farm Link Team,

My name is Sharlene Bund, and I am 50% owner of Sugars Bridge Farm, a 15-acre property located in Chester County, PA. Our farm is home to a small herd of alpacas, and it also serves as the site for Camp Barnyard, a farm camp for children ages 6 to 12.

My passion for farming began in my youth, growing up on various farms (horse, cattle, and sod) in Alberta, Canada. After high school, I traveled through the South Pacific, working on diverse farms and deepening my appreciation for agriculture. I pursued a degree in Marine/Freshwater Biology, with the aim of owning an aquaculture farm, and gained valuable experience working on an Arctic Char farm in the Yukon. My career then took me into research, where I contributed to various saltwater and freshwater studies as a professional technician. Additionally, I spent four years on Canadian draggers off the West Coast and a season on a Polish factory ship in Canadian waters, processing Hake (West Coast) and Whiting (East Coast).

My lifelong interest in the Farm-to-Table movement has evolved into a passion for the Farm-to-Fashion industry, as I learn about the alpaca and llama industries, transforming raw fiber into finished products. The response to our Alpaca Tours has been overwhelmingly positive, revealing a shared fascination with farm life. This inspired me to launch Camp Barnyard, where children delight in participating in farm chores and experiencing the joys of rural life.

Over the past five years, I have poured my heart and soul into this farm and camp, and I am deeply committed to preserving this 15-acre historic farm. I have already built strong connections with West Bradford Township and Chester County advocates for farm and open land preservation.

Unfortunately, my current farm partner, who is involved solely in the real estate aspect of the farm, is seeking to buy me out, possibly with a potential plans to subdivide the property. I would like to position myself to buy him out, ensuring that this historic 1790 Chester County farm remains intact and Camp Barnyard the Alpaca Tours keep evolving. I see how we could be a part of Penn State, New Bolten Center – Penn Vet, West Chester University and so much more. We could have open/home schoolers be a part of Sugars Bridge Farm; a growing educational platform.

I am actively seeking a new partnership with someone who shares my vision for the future of both small and large farms. I believe in the potential for growth and goodness that has already begun here at Sugars Bridge Farm. If you or someone you know is interested in preserving and expanding this unique venture, I would love to discuss the possibilities.

Please feel free to explore our website, social media channels, and YouTube videos by searching “Sugars Bridge Farm.” This farm is not just a place; it’s an opportunity to educate and inspire the next generation about the importance of preserving farmland and supporting farmers who take on the risks to keep our agricultural heritage alive.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Warm regards,

Sharlene McKinley Bund


Website: SugarsBridgeFarm.com

Email: Sugarsbridgefarm@gmail.com

Phone: 610-203-4141

Entering Farmer #20410

Future farmer, semi-retired, in search of one to two level acres of paradise to start a small farm. I would like to raise a few chickens, a dog, and enjoy the quiet. I have a medical background with a desire to become a farmer. My experience with farm animals is through volunteer work. I anticipate that this endeavor will take time to accomplish.

Entering Farmer #20409

I have been working as a hired farm manager of a beef operation for about 10 years, and had 5 years of farm hand experience prior to that. I am looking to connect with landowners to purchase and/or lease land in the area to expand on my cow/calf Simmental herd that my wife and I just started on our own in 2020.

Entering Farmer #20408

My husband and I started our herd of Simmental beef cattle in November 2020 and have been renting land to raise them on, but are looking to potentially expand and would need more land to do so. My husband has approximately 10 years of experience with being a farm manager for other farm owners, and around 5 years as a farm hand previous to that. I have been helping him manage our herd since we acquired our animals.

Entering Farmer #20406

I am a young farmer currently working with my dad and brother on our dairy farm. Our farm is certified organic for over 30 years now. I am interested in leasing land to get started on my own.

Entering Farmer #20403

Fernando Rodriguez
8500 Pine Road
[Philadelphia, PA, 19111
fernrod6@gmail.com
267-252-2636

Objective:
Dedicated and experienced Resident Farmer with a proven track record of managing the historic Fox Chase Farm, a demonstration and educational 112-acre farm within the School District of Philadelphia. Seeking an opportunity to continue sharing my passion for sustainable agriculture and education.

Professional Summary:
Resident Farmer at Fox Chase Farm, a renowned educational farm within the School District of Philadelphia, where I have overseen farm operations, educational programs, and community engagement for the past 4 years. Committed to promoting sustainable farming practices and fostering a love for agriculture in students and visitors alike.

Experience:

Resident Farmer
Fox Chase Farm, Philadelphia, PA
2021 – Present
– Managed all aspects of the 112-acre demonstration and educational farm.
– Oversaw crop production, livestock care, and farm maintenance operations.
– Developed and implemented educational programs for students and community members.
– Collaborated with educators to integrate farm activities into school curricula.
– Conducted tours, workshops, and events to raise awareness about sustainable farming practices.
– Assisted in planting, harvesting, and caring for crops.
– Managed livestock, including feeding, health monitoring, and breeding programs.
– Maintained farm equipment and facilities in good working condition.
– Participated in community outreach activities to promote local agriculture.

Skills:
– Sustainable agriculture practices
– Crop management and rotation
– Livestock husbandry
– Farm equipment operation and maintenance
– Educational program development
– Community engagement and outreach
– Strong communication and leadership skills

Certifications: Penn State Extension
– Beef Production and Management
– Beef Quality Assurance
– Grazing 101: Sustainable Pasture Management for Livestock
– Rasing Small Flock Poultry
– Dairy Skills: Transition Management
– Dairy Skills: Feeding Management
– Dairy Skills: Milking Management
– Dairy Skills: Reproductive Management
– Dairy Skills: Calf and Heifer Health
– Pork Checkoff: Transport Quality Assurance

References:
Available upon request.