Roots run so deep at WillaBella Farm in Gig Harbor that they go all the way back to 1912. The unassuming farmhouse, with its fir lumber flooring and arched doorways, still stands. As does the guest house, which was first a woodworking shop. From the grape vines to the heirloom orchard of apple, pear, cherry […]
farms
Posted inAt Home
What 100% Grass-Fed Organic Dairy Brings to Your Table
It’s no secret that many grocery store dairy sections are filled with more options today. One choice continuing to gain favor with consumers is 100% grass-fed organic dairy. Nutrition, environmental awareness and animal care are some of the leading reasons consumers choose grass-fed dairy products. Globally, the 100% grass-fed dairy market is projected to continue […]
Posted inGarden
Kitsap Farm Tour Draws Thousands
The 2nd Annual Kitsap Farm Tour in August allowed the public to visit 11 farms across Kitsap. The one-day, self-guided tour was a resounding success, drawing in over 2,000 attendees from across the county and beyond. Each site was an opportunity to experience the diverse offerings and activities Kitsap farms offer. Many sites also incorporated […]
Posted inGarden
Kitsap Farm Tour 2024
The 2nd Annual Kitsap Farm Tour takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11. This is an opportunity for you to visit 11 farms across Kitsap County in a one-day, self-guided tour. The farms feature family-friendly activities, animal experiences and local products for purchase. Many will also offer food and snacks for […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Generating Income from Your Hobby Farm
Transforming a hobby farm into a source of revenue involves more than just sowing seeds and rearing animals. With careful planning and strategic choices, hobby farmers can cultivate multiple income streams. Here are some ideas for how to bring in the dollars while enjoying rural living. Capitalize on Fresh-Grown Goods Cultivating fresh produce isn’t just […]
Posted inPeople & Places
The Smithshyre — A Farm Full of Baby Goats
While farming is no longer the common occupation of America, it’s far from obsolete. Run by Roni and Erin Smith, The Smithshyre in Poulsbo is a farm whose presence brings attention to the traditional relationship between people and livestock. Erin Smith believes that every person, without even realizing it, has a deep and innate desire […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Free Webinar to Cover Weather Stations, Water and Drought Tracking
WSU Extension’s Regional Small Farms Program is hosting a free online webinar for farmers on the Olympic and Kitsap Peninsulas titled, “Weather Stations Webinar: A Tool for Farmers.” Gardeners and citizens interested in local weather patterns are also encouraged to register. The webinar takes place Tuesday, June 4, from noon to 1 p.m. It will […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Local Indie Feed Stores Still Making Their Mark in World of Growing Competition
Stroll around the grounds of Bay Hay & Feed on Bainbridge Island and you get the sense of walking back in time. It’s like visiting an old-fashioned country store, with a modern twist. There’s a nursery and greenhouse, filled with about every plant and tree imaginable. There’s live stock and pet supplies, dog and cat […]
Posted inFood & Entertainment
The Key Pen Farm Tour and Fiber Arts Show
The Key Peninsula’s two flagship annual events, Farm Tour and Fiber Arts Show, are returning on Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last year, more than 1,100 people from 46 different ZIP codes were reported at one tour location alone. Expect a family-friendly day filled with music, food, arts and crafts, demonstrations, kids’ activities […]