Jeff Poppen and the Long Hungrey Creek Farm
I grew up on farmland near Chicago, and got my own in Tennessee 50 years ago.
Starting with the organic method my dad used, inspired by Rodale and Acres publications, I began integrating biodynamic principles in our market garden 40 years ago. Our farm has always had cattle, whose manure was (and is) composted for crop production. I love old time farming wisdom, such as crop and animal rotations, manuring, spreading ashes and lime, and letting the land rest in cover crops or woods. A quote exemplifies that these intrinsic agricultural practices are nothing new.
“By the rotation of crops You lighten your labor,
Hesitate not to enrich
Dried up soil with dung
And scatter filthy ashes
On fields that are exhausted.
So, too, are fields rested
By a rotation of crops
And unplowed land in the meanwhile
Promise to repay you.”
Virgil, 30 B.C.
Like most teenagers, I knew everything. After 10 years I wasn’t so smart and, visiting other organic farms, became very impressed by those using biodynamics. I liked the reliance on biological activity and the recommendation to not buy stuff. This fit my income level. Whatever we need for crop production should come from within the farm itself, which is regarded as a self-contained entity. Our production gradually increased during the 90’s and early 2000’s, to 50 head of cattle and 10 acres of vegetables. It has since gradually wound down to about 40 head and 4 acres, respectively. I’ve written a handful of books, produced a number of t.v. programs, and consult with others about their farms and gardens. We’ve always been a community farm, and still host vibrant gatherings for music and biodynamics. You’re welcome to visit.