Milkweed Farm has recently opened its brand new farm store, now open daily from 8am to 6pm. Located on their picturesque 10-acre property in Westminster West, part of the Earth Bridge Community Land Trust (EBCLT), the store offers a range of fresh, local produce. Visitors can enjoy Milkweed Farm’s own produce, alongside a selection of products sourced from local farmers and producers.
The Earth Bridge Community Land Trust (EBCLT) is a small, member-run organization managing about 400 acres across seven parcels in Windham County, Vermont, and Cheshire County, New Hampshire. EBCLT supports around 50 member Land Users who live on 22 long-term leaseholds, where they own their houses and outbuildings, which they build and improve upon themselves. This unique structure allows for sustainable land stewardship and promotes community-based farming.
Emily and Jonah of Milkweed Farm have focused on cultivating over 100 varieties of vegetables using sustainable, no-till practices. Jonah’s skillful planning ensures efficient use of space, while the farm's innovative methods include permanent raised beds and minimal tillage to maintain soil health and enhance water retention. Their approach reduces dependence on fossil fuels and conventional fertilizers, favoring compost and natural minerals instead.
Milkweed Farm's commitment to sustainable practices extends to their crop management. Methods like intercropping—planting crops such as broccoli with bok choy and tomatoes with ginger—optimize space and reduce weeding. High tunnels are used to protect delicate crops and regulate growing conditions, ensuring reliable yields despite challenging weather, asl well as rabbits and deer.
Their new farm store is a testament to their thoughtful approach to expansion and community engagement. As a queer- and trans-run farm, they are dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming space.
Food Connects supports Milkweed Farm by supplying the store with a variety of products from local partners, including Terra Nova Coffee, Trenchers Farmhouse, Miller Farms, Castleton Crackers, Picadilly Farm, Ground Up, FinAllie Ferments, SideHill Farm, Yalla, Vermont Shepherd, Grafton Village Cheese, Sisters of Anarchy, Frisky Cow, Green Mountain Orchard and more. They also offer sweet treats from Paradox Pastry which are available every Friday until they sell out! The new farm store not only provides a venue for fresh, local food but also embodies Milkweed Farm’s dedication to sustainability and community well-being.