Last August, 26 acres of farmland adjoining the farm (Dooryard Farm) that I had managed since 2020 went up for sale. The farmland was hayed once a year by MCHT, but was completely undeveloped. It became a part of my twice daily walks around Dooryard Farm with my dog in 2020, a beautiful expanse of land that I grew to love and appreciate through every season.

The property was initially too expensive for the Direct Farm Ownership loan through the Farm Service Agency (a no down payment, 40 year loan program designed for farm managers with little credit and no assets--me!)

Several months later, the seller took the price down and I was able to go through the process of applying for the Direct Farm Ownership Loan with the FSA.

Two weeks ago, I closed on the 26 acres that have felt like home to me for many years. I have since tilled my first acre for crops, and the first 8 (free!) community garden plots, which already have 3 reservations for the 2027 season.

There is no infrastructure on this property, and as we farmers limp through a second year of drought my first priority is to dig a well.

I began Crowded Hearth Farm as a homestead during the Spring of 2023 in Lincolnville, Maine, in my husband's backyard. Since then it has grown into a small but mighty farm operation, selling wholesale to local co-ops, restaurants, and grocery stores as well as to individuals through farm boxes.

The mission of the farm is to provide access to local vegetables, flowers, eggs and meat, as well as become a place for community education, gatherings and meals. Since its inception, Crowded Hearth has offered not only on-farm opportunities for education, but off-farm as well. This has involved collaborating the past 3 years with organizations like Knox-Lincoln Soil and Water Conservation District, and American Farmland Trust, teaming up to host a soil health education series that begins with a shared meal of Crowded Hearth produce, as well as creating curriculum on food systems and local agriculture for school children ages 6-14.

Additionally, my involvement as a board member and part of the executive committee with Waldo County Bounty (an organization devoted to reducing hunger in Waldo County and beyond) has helped me to see areas where Crowded Hearth's educational opportunities and produce could help fill in gaps left behind after major cuts to SNAP and other federally funded programs.

With a well, not only will we be able to ensure a good first season first season of crops on the new land (and be able to get some poultry and ruminants out on pasture!) but be able to continue offering and expanding our educational programming and opportunities.

Thank you!