Do you have any idea what the farming life is all about? From being Certified Organic to offering a CSA program, farms and farmers today are fascinating. Read this interview by Michelle Andrade as she speaks with a local farmer.

What comes to mind when you hear the word 'farm?'

Some farms are huge, while others are small. And I learned this when I sat down with Judy McGary of Doe Run Farms, who was happy to be interviewed. The first thing she said, in fact, was: "We are so happy that you will let others know about our little farm."

The farm might be small, but it's having a big impact.

Q. Besides being empty nesters, what inspired you to start Doe Run Farm?
A. We missed being close to nature after having lived a suburban life for so many years and being caught up in the hectic everyday way of life in the city. We are glad to be living a quieter way of life. Though we stay busy all of the time here on the farm, the surroundings and the pace is much different than when we worked in the city. My husband John and I grew up on farms and we always knew one day we would have the opportunity to live on a farm again. There is nothing like being able to eat from your own garden year round - which we are able to do here - and to enjoy all the wonderful things that a farm life provides.

What is is like to own a farm in Tennessee?
Having a farm situated at the foothills of the Appalachians is like having been given a special gift. Every day you are gifted with the sight of lush green hills, an ever changing sky, flowers that amaze you with their color, the sounds of horses and cows in nearby pastures, and fresh clean air. What more could you ask for?

Do you grow strictly organic fruits and vegetables? If so, why did you choose to do so?
Yes, our farm is a Certified Organic farm. John just picked a couple of trays of pears from one of our fruit trees and it's comforting to me to know they have never had any chemicals used on them. The same goes for our apples in our small fruit orchard.

We chose to have our farm Certified Organic, because it tells our customers that we have certain standards that we must live up to with our growing methods. We feel that it gives our farm credibility. The things that are required of us to become Certified Organic are really just things that a farmer who makes a living at farming probably does anyway.

If someone wanted to buy from you, where would they go?
For about five years we were regulars at the Franklin Farmer's Market, but our focus now is on our CSA (community supported agriculture) program from our farm. We have more of an opportunity to get to know the families that we grow for, and they have the opportunity to get to know us this way. We like being able to visit with them when they pick up their shares. I especially like getting to meet the children.

Have you ever had a chat with a farmer? The next time you venture out to your local farmer's market, take a moment to speak to a grower. Their life and work may be much different than you think.

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