By Scott Mitchell Johnson
Staff Writer
AUGUSTA — Open Farm Day 2011 is a wholesome family adventure that offers a hayride of fun. On Sunday, July 24, farms throughout all 16 counties will open their gates to offer the public an opportunity to learn about the business of agriculture.
Open Farm Day gives community members the chance to visit local farms throughout the state. Visiting hours are generally from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., but some farms are extending their hours for special events such as milking.
According to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources, this year marks the 22nd year of celebrating Maine’s Open Farm Day. Farms around the state are committed and passionate about ensuring the sustainability of agriculture. Maine’s farming industry has given back to their communities by providing a forum for education and learning in a fun atmosphere.
Many farms will have demonstrations, displays, and farm-raised products for sale, as well as animals and crops to experience. Activities include barn and field tours, milking, hay rides, petting zoos, nature trails, beautiful scenery, samples for tasting, and refreshments.
“Along the way you can share in the pride Maine farmers put into the products they grow for the local market,” said Maine Department of Agriculture Commissioner Walt Whitcomb. “Buying local really does wonders for our community.”
The “buy local” trend is extremely popular and this is an opportunity for all Maine residents and visitors to seek out local food and farm products. Fresh, local products are more nutritious and taste better and are an environmentally friendly means of obtaining food, Whitcomb said.
Three farms in Aroostook County will be participating in Open Farm Day. They include:
• Circle B Farms (orchard), operated by Patty and Sam Blackstone, is located at 287 East Presque Isle Road in Caribou. The event will feature farm tours and displays. A class on tree planting with apples and blueberries will be held. The Blackstones will also talk about caring for fruit trees and bushes. Bean hole beans will be served around 11 a.m. Cost is $5 per person (first-come, first-served). Hours will be 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 498-8238 for more information. Farm is located 1.5 miles from Route 161 on Route 205 in Caribou. A map is on the farm’s website at www.circlebfarmsinc.com.
• Orchard Hill Farms/Aroostook Highlands (organic grass-fed, grass-finished beef), owned by Gail and Stanley Maynard and located at 507 Pratt Road in Woodland. Designated the “Outstanding Conservation Farm for 2010,” Orchard Hill Farm is home to 120 purebred Highland cattle. These long-horned, shaggy beasts, one of the world’s oldest breeds, are known for their hardiness and docile temperament. The Maynards market breeding stock and MOFGA certified organic, grass-fed, grass-finished beef. Visitors will get information on beef production, rotational grazing, forage management, and conservation practices. Come meet the season’s spring calves, have a coffee or lemonade, and maybe sample some Highland beef. Hours will be 10 a.m.-3 p.m. From Caribou take Route 161 north, turn right onto the Colby Siding Road. Travel to end, it T’s on Pratt Road. Turn right on Pratt, 1/4 mile stay right and continue to top of hill. Orchard Hill Farm is on the right, watch for signs.
• Oxbow Wreaths (Christmas tree farm, field grown perennials), owned by Steven and Judy Sherman, is located at 685 Oxbow Road in Oxbow Plantation. The Shermans will be touring their balsam fir Christmas tree plantation, giving shearing demonstrations, and tips on growing, insect control, etc. Demonstrations on making Christmas wreaths will also be offered throughout the day. Their pet pig will be a highlight with the children (she loves apples and cookies). Be sure to visit the Deep In The Woods Gift Shop featuring specialty foods such as maple syrup and honey, ploye mix, jams and jellies, arts and crafts, and more from Aroostook County. Open Farm Day hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Located 3 miles off Rt. 11 on the Oxbow Road. Look for Oxbow Wreath sign.
For a list of host farms or for additional information, contact Judy Ballard, Maine Department of Agriculture, 28 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333; call 207-287-3871; or e-mail judy.h.blaisdell@maine.gov. Farm site information is also available on the web at http://www.getrealmaine.com.
