In the fall of 2009, students in GMC's Sustainable Farming Systems class fanned out across Vermont to interview regional farmers. With video cameras in tow, they discussed land management, business practices, challenges posed by the current agricultural system and more. These videos are a selection of final projects. To view all of the videos and farm profiles from the class, click here. Gleason's Grains Bridgport, Vermont Ben Gleason moved to Vermont thirty years ago with the intention of growing wheat and milling flour organically in an area where no one else was doing such a thing. One of Gleason’s biggest successes is his contract with Otter Creek Brewing - he sells wheat to them and they named an ale after him.
Video Credits: Elise Boisvert, Lillian Driscoll, Michelle Erhard, Courtney Perry and Gretchen Van Eck
Champlain Orchards Shoreham, Vermont Bill Suhr purchased the farmland for Champlain Orchards in 1999 from the Vermont Land Trust. The land trust paid for half the land and Bill paid the rest upon the agreement that Bill would keep the land in agriculture. At the time of purchase, there were already apple trees established on the farm, from which Bill was able to market one million pounds of apples in his first year.
Video Credits: Brandy Bunkley, Jackson Casey, Evan Dale and John Zap
Milky Way Organic Farm Ira, Vermont In 2004, Rob Clark, 18, re-established the Milky Way as its sole proprietor. He works with his dad, Bob, a successful farmer for more than 30 years. Rob's mom, Mary Saceric-Clark, an educator for 35 years, develops educational and ag-tourism programs at the farm.
Video Credits: Jillian Bunge, Gordon Ellms, Jacqueline Terry and Rebecca Tellar
Vermont Herb & Salad Company Benson, Vermont Vermont Herb & Salad Company is a four-season family farm committed to preserving Vermont's rural working landscape. Run by GMC alum Heather McDermott and her husband, Jared, the farm produces organic micro greens, salad greens and a variety of herbs. They do not use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides - only rich soil, quality seed and hard work.
Video Credits: Cassidy Callahan, Brian Kramp, Devin Lyons and Zachary Podhorzer
