June 16, 2017
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Ellen Sabina
WINDSOR
On May 12, Nate Clark and Katie Webb-Clark purchased the 237-acre Reed Farm in Windsor, where they will operate an organic dairy. MFT simultaneously purchased a conservation easement on the property, making the farm more affordable for the oncoming farmers, and ensuring that the land will be forever available for farming. The farm was previously owned by the late Dan Tibbets, a passionate farmer who was featured in MFT's Meet Your Farmer film in 2010. Nate and Katie plan to milk about 40 cows, and have a contract with Organic Valley.
HARRISON
On May 8 MFT purchased an easement that will permanently protect a 54-acre farm in Harrison. The Carlson Farm is one of just a few active farms left on a road once home to a rich agricultural community. Bob and Barbara Carlson bought the farm in the 1950s when Bob returned from WWII, and have since grown corn, apples, vegetables, hay, and harvested forest products. The Carlsons believe deeply in stewardship of the land and feel strongly about protecting their legacy for the future.
BOWDOINHAM
On June 9, farmer David Berry protected his 40-acre farm in Bowdoinham. Merrymeeting Farm produces organic carrots and tomatoes for wholesale markets and restaurants in Portland, and for many years David also ran a farm market boat, selling fresh produce to coastal island communities during the high season.
