Tuesday, August 12, 2008

2008 Farm Tours

We've set up 3 Farm tours to visit local farms that are involved with the West Michigan Co-op!

Please reserve your spot on the tour by sending an email to membership@westmichigancoop.com. There is limited space and tours will be filled on a first come first serve basis.

Grassfields
Saturday August 30th 10:00am
14238 60th Avenue
Coopersville MI, 49404
http://www.grassfieldscheese.com

Grassfields is a family owned and operated farm that has been in the family since the early 1920s. In 2002, they started making raw-milk cheese (they are the first place in Michigan licensed to make and sell raw milk cheese). They sell seven different varieties of cheese. In Spring 2007, Grassfields was certified Organic.

Things to know:
  • Cheesemaking will be going on, as well as a tour on a wagon of the farm!

  • Wear closed shoes that can get dirty

  • $3.50/person



Mud Lake Farm
Saturday September 20th 9:00am
3411 Ottogan Street
Hudsonville MI, 49426
http://www.mudlakefarm.com/

Mud Lake Farm is situated on 40 acres in southern Ottawa county. They are firm believers in sustainable agriculture, and enjoy exploring new ideas to make our farm more sustainable. They do not use chemical pesticides, herbicides, or growth hormones on our farm. A variety of herbs, greens, and other vegetables are available in season.

Things to know:
  • Carpool if possible - we have very limited parking along the right side of the road past our driveway only (please don't park in our neighbor's yard on the left side of the road!!)

  • We have a very friendly border collie (she will want everyone to throw her frisbee...), but sometime kids are afraid if they aren't used to dogs

  • Wear closed shoes that can get dirty (not a good idea to wear heels, sandals, your best shoes...), especially if you'd like to walk around after the tour. Most of our property is low land, and if there's been much rain it will be wet.


Wells Orchard
Saturday September 27th 9:00-10:00am
O-8993 Kenowa SW
Grand Rapids MI, 49534
http://www.wellsorchards.com/

Wells Orchards is a working family farm located along the Grand River west of Grand Rapids. The family has been raising tree fruit commercially for over 125 years, 88 of those years on this farm. They grow many varieties of tree fruits, including apples, peaches, pears, sweet cherries, and plums along with other crops. Their goal is to provide the highest quality fruit to the public, at reasonable prices, and in a friendly atmosphere.

Things to know:
  • The tour of the orchard is free, there is an optional corn maze for $2

  • The store will be open and among other things there will be single serving cider portions for $1

  • Family friendly!

  • Wear closed shoes that can get dirty

  • No apple picking allowed


Space is limited for all the farm tours so sign up early!
Email us at membership@westmichigancoop.com

No comments: