Shifting the Farm Focus to Agri-Tourism

Wednesday, April 9 -  Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com shares the news affecting small farmers in America, including a focus on the dire honeybee situation with the population dwindling and how it’s affecting other produce and areas in agriculture, and what beekeepers are suggesting others can do to help. Then, Doug breaks down what the tariffs could mean for farmers and how much the US has exported to other countries and why the trade balance isn’t there, and the financial toll faced by the freezing of approved farm programs. Next, we’re introduced to Chadam Christensen, a 5th generation farmer from Flamig Farm in West Simsbury, CT. Flamig farm began in 1907, and continues today with Chadam’s parents, Nevin and Julie, at the helm. During it's 100 plus years, the farm has gone from a 12 cow dairy, to a few thousand chickens for egg production and through a time of growing 10 acres of organic vegetables. They once had 3 teams of draft horses and did a lot of hayrides, as well as carriage rides for weddings. The mission of Flamig Farm is to be the premier demonstration and education center in New England, focusing on local food production, energy conservation and efficient energy production, and personal wellness and nutrition. They’ve shifted into an agritourism business with their primary income being with their petting zoo, but also have haunted walkthroughs, host birthday parties and weddings, farm stays, they have chickens with a good amount of eggs, and even offer Animal Reiki. You can learn more about Flamig Farm on Flamigfarm.com. Lastly, Doug opines conversations many farmers are having, like how farmers can protect our farm and, what should congress and the local politicians be focused on, and a new planting season. 

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