Core Values Blog Series: Environmental Consciousness

Core Values Blog Series: Environmental Consciousness

Posted by Sarah Beyers on Jun 9th 2023

In today's fast-paced world, where industrial farming practices often prioritize productivity over environmental stewardship, we try our best to live by our core value of respecting the earth’s health. At Juniper Farm, a harmonious balance between agriculture and nature is nurtured through a deep commitment to environmental consciousness and regenerative farming practices. With a holistic approach to land management, we aim to not just remove from the land but also to give back, replenishing and regenerating the very soil on which it thrives.

Unlike conventional farming methods that tend to exploit the land's resources, we place an emphasis on regenerating the soil it cultivates. The guiding principle with this is to replenish the soil by returning as much as is taken during the harvest. By doing so, the farm ensures a sustainable cycle that fosters long-term fertility and vitality.

Another regenerative practice at our farm is leaving the crop out over winter, creating valuable habitats and sources of food for pollinators and other animals, that are essential to the survival and wellbeing of the planet. Instead of resorting to plastic tarps to protect the soil, the farm allows nature to take its course. This practice not only benefits the local ecosystem but also minimizes waste and plastic usage.

Cover crops play a vital role in replenishing the nutrients that are extracted during the harvest. At Juniper Farm, the incorporation of cover crops helps restore and improve the soil's health. These crops act as green manure, enriching the soil with essential nutrients and organic matter.

To maximize the benefits of the crops grown, we implement a method of returning plant material back to the soil. By mowing crops at the soil surface and tarping them for a few weeks, the material undergoes a composting process, replenishing the soil with essential nutrients that were consumed by the plants during the growing season. This approach exemplifies the farm's dedication to closing the nutrient loop and fostering a regenerative farming ecosystem.

We also do our best to ensure that every harvest is approached with sensitivity towards wildlife. Rather than harvesting an entire crop, we intentionally leave behind flowers for pollinators and pods/seeds for birds and other wildlife. This approach fosters biodiversity, allowing different species to thrive and ensuring a vibrant and interconnected ecosystem within and around the farm.

In addition, we incorporate permaculture landscaping principles throughout the farm. Native trees and plants are strategically added, water sources such as bird baths and ponds are integrated, and edible plants are cultivated. These practices not only enhance the aesthetics of the farm but also create habitat areas and promote the overall sustainability of the ecosystem.

Recognizing the importance of the surrounding woodland, we do our best to prioritize its restoration and care. The farm diligently removes invasive plant species, prunes, and nurtures existing trees, and introduces native plants to revitalize the woodland's health.

In conclusion, we really try to live by our core values, one of which being environmental consciousness. We also do our best to be as transparent as possible, and want you all as our community to feel connected to how your products were made, and what your purchases are supporting.