Farmer Method: Sustainable

Entering Farmer #20425

I am seeking an opportunity to grow medicinal herbs with a focus on native medicinal and edible plants, Chinese medicinals and raise rabbits for the animal food industry. I also wish to grow figs and seasonal heirloom vegetable plant starts. I plan to market the herbs wholesale dried to the retail business market initially and potentially grow into food processing beyond dehydration. I currently have a collection of heirloom figs that need a proper in ground home. I wish to utilize the figs for both fruit production and fig tree starts. I believe the leaves can also be utilized for sale.

I am seeking a career change for a more satisfying and fulfilling live work environment. I started my career change exploration by working at a greenhouse grow production business then a retail nursery business. I spent a month on an ecotourism focused organic farm this past summer. I have experience in B2B sales, real estate sales, property management and hospitality.

I have a rough draft business plan and see an opportunity opening in the market of medicinal herbs grown in the USA as well as a burgeoning health pet food movement. There are few providers in this region for this market opening.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Entering Farmer #20424

I have been farming for a couple of years now, gradually growing from just chickens to sheep and cattle. I am looking to lease or purchase good land for ag activity.

Entering Farmer #20423

My name is Joseph Jezierski, and I am an active-duty service member in the United States Navy, specializing in cybersecurity. Although my career has been rooted in cyber operations, I have always carried a deep passion for farming and sustainable agriculture. Growing up in a hardworking family, I developed a profound respect for labor-intensive, rewarding work, which has been a driving force in shaping my dream of owning and operating a farm. My military experience has not only strengthened my discipline and adaptability but also provided me with advanced technical skills that I believe are highly relevant to modern farming practices.

During my military career, I have cultivated skills that I know will translate well to farming. As a cybersecurity specialist, I’ve learned to analyze complex systems, which will help in managing farm operations, troubleshooting equipment, and implementing new technologies. I have also developed the ability to adapt to evolving challenges, a skill that is critical for both cyber operations and farming, where resilience and quick decision-making are essential. Additionally, I have gained expertise in utilizing technology effectively. With the rise of precision agriculture, technology plays a vital role in increasing efficiency and sustainability, and my background in digital systems positions me to integrate these advancements into farm operations seamlessly. Although my hands-on farming experience is limited, I am actively seeking opportunities to learn and grow. I have enrolled with PA Farm Link through their New Farmer Form and am eager to connect with seasoned farmers who can mentor me in this journey.

I’m reaching out to farmers with the hope of learning from your invaluable experience. Farming is not just an aspiration for me; it’s a dream that has grown with me over the years. I understand the dedication and hard work required to succeed, and I’m ready to put in the effort. I deeply value the opportunity to learn from someone who has spent years in the fields, understanding the land, weather patterns, and the countless nuances of the profession. Your guidance would mean the world to me as I strive to build a future rooted in the traditions of Pennsylvania’s farming heritage.

I am looking for a pathway to transition into farming full-time after completing my military service. My goal is to acquire land in Pennsylvania’s rich agricultural landscape and establish a farm that will serve as my home and a legacy for future generations. My vision includes implementing sustainable and ethical farming practices, such as free-range systems for cows, chickens, pigs, goats, and sheep to ensure humane treatment and healthy, natural growth. For crops, I aim to grow a diverse selection of specialized crops alongside staple crops that are critical to Pennsylvania and the nation. I also want to leverage advancements in the digital age to improve farming efficiency and sustainability through tools like temperature-monitoring systems, precision irrigation, and soil analysis software, as well as data-driven farming applications to optimize yields and conserve resources. Beyond operational efficiency, I am deeply committed to community and environmental impact, providing food that supports local and national food systems while contributing to environmental conservation through sustainable practices that prioritize soil health, water efficiency, and biodiversity.

My ultimate dream is to create a farm that serves as a model of sustainability and innovation, while remaining deeply rooted in tradition. I envision my farm as a place that not only feeds people but also inspires future farmers to embrace ethical practices and technological advancements. I want to cherish this farm with my family, ensuring it becomes a legacy that endures for generations. Pennsylvania’s farming heritage aligns perfectly with my goals, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to its rich tradition. With the support of organizations like PA Farm Link and the mentorship of experienced farmers like you, I am confident in my ability to achieve this dream while honoring the values of hard work, sustainability, and community.

Entering Farmer #20422

I serve as Managing Director of Avoveg Health LLC, an export company specializing in avocados and vegetables. I manage quality control, cold chain logistics, and partnerships with European clients, gaining expertise in international trade and sustainable practices.

Growing up on a family dairy farm, I gained hands-on experience in livestock care, milk production, and pasture management, inspiring my passion for agriculture.

I am a mother of five, currently living in Montana and planning to move to Pennsylvania. I have registered Golden Meadow Farm, which will oversee sustainable dairy farming, organic farming, and aeroponics. Organic farming is my primary focus, as it aligns with my commitment to environmental stewardship and producing high-quality products. A farm with a house would be ideal as it would provide a stable foundation for my family and operations.

I am particularly interested in aeroponics due to its immense benefits, including water efficiency, space optimization, and year-round production. My goal is to establish artisanal cheese production and organic farming alongside aeroponics, working with a farm owner on a long-term lease-to-own or succession agreement. My experience positions me to develop a thriving, sustainable farm operation that supports local communities and promotes environmental sustainability.

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 #20420

We are a family farm operation looking to expand our row crop acres. I have extensive experience with crop farming and we also raise broiler chickens on our home farm. I am looking to form good, long-term relationships with landowners so that we can care for their land for many years to come. We utilize No-till, cover crops, waterway management, and resource saving technology to keep our farming practices sustainable.

Entering Farmer #20418

Our young family is looking for land to start a small operation. We plan to begin with a homestead to meet our needs and then eventually expand to sales to others. We love to create spaces for people to have real experiences and would love to offer those experiences to people.

Although I am technically a novice, one side of my family were orchard growers and the other side were dairy farmers. I grew up going to my grandparents conventional dairy farm and helping out there. I’ve also owned chickens and I have experience with horses and goats. I have always had a garden, whether a small apartment garden or a large garden on the 5 acres I grew up on. I have a lot of generational knowledge that is just part of me and I didn’t realize I had until I moved to the city. My husband brings business management, real estate, and budgeting experience.

Although my family farmed conventionally, I’m interested in more sustainable and organic practices on a smaller scale. I plan to start with a large garden and quickly add chickens and angora rabbits for wool. From there, the plan will depend on the land and what systems are already in place. Some land is better suited for goats vs sheep or full size dairy cows vs mini cows. If roosters are allowed, I would love to breed lavender or splash Orpingtons.

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