FARM 651 CEDAR MICHIGAN

Farm 651 2011 Accomplishments

2011-12-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

As the end of the year approaches, we think back to all that was accomplished this year at the farm.

1.) Established the "651 Project" Non-Profit.
2.) Constructed a 20x14 Chicken Coop Entirely Out of Recycled Pallets. (See Pics).
3.) Raised 30 Free Range Chicks. Only lost 2 of them to the wild. Lost two more to my Labradoodle!
4.) Established organic garden adjacent to the market.
5.) Constructed a 14x32 cedar sided animal barn to house future goats and cows. (See Pics)
6.) Completed commercial kitchen modifications in Farmers Market
7.) Modified Roadside Stand into the areas only "PIE SHACK" (See Pics)
8.) Competed in the Pepsi Refresh Project. (We didn't win, but we did get a ton of national exposure).

Farm 651 & Our Favorite Wineries

2011-10-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to L Mawby Vineyards and 45 North for their generous support of Farm 651 this Season.

Please be sure to visit them next weekend via http://lpwines.com/2011-toast-the-season-wine-food-pairings/

The 651 Project

2011-08-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

The 651 Project has been established to assist Michigan students in their pursuit of agricultural skills and knowledge. Specific areas of focus include organic farming, viticulture, construction technology, agritourism, responsible landscape design, and green energy technology. Farm 651 will serve as a learning campus for the endeavor.

Our original plan has always included making the Farm 651 land available to students and non-profits. To realize this goal, we created the 651 Project – a licensed Michigan Non-profit organization.

Students will have the ability to live and work on a functioning farm. Housing will be provided and product sales (produce and fruits) via farm markets and the onsite retail facilities will serve as a living cost stipend to students.

The 651 Project is currently seeking funding to build the “Smart House”, a super efficient Farmhouse that will serve as student living accommodations. Donations can be made on the 651project.org website. Contractors and agricultural professionals are being sought out to serve as instructors and project mentors. Anyone interested in participating and sharing their knowledge is encouraged to call.

For more information on The 651 Project, contact Jason Roggensee at farm651@hotmail.com or by calling 231-944-5283. Alternatively, a website is available at http://www.651project.org detailing programs, specific student opportunities, and donation guidelines.

Week of July 23, 2011

2011-07-25T05:53:00.000-07:00

This Week:

Sweet Corn
Fingerling Potatoes
Broccoli Crowns
Beans
Raspberries
Blueberries
Sweet Cherries
Tart Cherries
Brown Anti Bio Free Eggs
Hydro Tomatoes
Mixed Greens
Onions
Cucumbers

Pies, Pies, and More Pies. (Strawberry, Cherry, Raspberry, Strawberry Rhubarb)
Sourdough Country Loaf
Lavender Shortbread Wine Cookies
Donner Mountain Honey
Lavender Bundles

Week of July 9, 2011

2011-07-07T16:19:00.000-07:00

This Week:

Raspberries
Bardenhagen Strawberries. (Strawberry Season Ends Sunday)
Frozen Bardenhagen Berries in 4-5 Quart Bags. Quartered, Unsugared.
Brown Anti Bio Free Eggs
Spinach
Red Lettuce
Hydro Tomatoes
Mixed Greens Eureka Farms
Onions
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Basil, Mint, Chives, Marjoram)
Celery
Cucumbers (Tuesday)

5in Strawberry Pies
Sourdough Country Loaf
Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Donner Mountain Honey
Gallagher Meats (Sausages, Steaks, Bacon, Ground Beef, Patties)
Leelanau Lavender Spices
Leelanau Lavender Bundles

Week of June 25th 2011

2011-06-27T05:48:00.000-07:00

Week of June 25, 2011

This Week:

Bardenhagen Berries
Frozen Bardenhagen Berries in 4-5 Quart Bags. Quartered, Unsugared.
Rasberries (Avail Friday)
Brown Anti Bio Free Eggs
Hydro Tomatoes
Rhubarb
Mixed Greens Eureka Farms
Green Onions
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Basil, Mint, Chives, Marjoram)

Strawberry Rhubarb Pies
Sourdough Country Loaf
Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies

Donner Mountain Honey
Gallagher Meats (Sausages, Steaks, Bacon, Ground Beef, Patties)
Leelanau Lavender Spices
Leelanau Lavender Bundles

Week of June 18, 2011

2011-06-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

This Week:

Strawberries (limit 2 quarts non csa) (csa members 4 quarts)
Brown Anti Bio Free Eggs
Hydro Tomatoes
Norconk Asparagus
Rhubarb
Mixed Greens Eureka Farms
Spinach
Swiss Chard
Green Onions
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Basil, Mint, Chives, Marjoram)

Sourdough Country Loaf
Mini Strawberry Hand Pies
Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Apple Bourbon Popcorn

Donner Mountain Honey
Gallagher Meats (Steaks, Bacon, Ground Beef, Patties)
Leelanau Lavendar Spices
Root Beer
Birch Beer
Orange Cream Soda

Coming Next Week:
Rasberries

Week of June 11, 2011

2011-06-11T05:19:00.000-07:00

This Week:

Norconk Asparagus

Rhubarb

Mixed Greens Eureka Farms
Bibb Lettuce
Green Onions
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Basil, Marjoram)

Coconut Macaroons
Hand Made Caramels
Rhubarb Pecan Muffins
Sourdough Country Loaf
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Bacon Bourbon Popcorn

Donner Mountain Honey
Gallagher Meats (Steaks, Bacon, Ground Beef, Patties)
Leelanau Lavendar Spices
Root Beer
Birch Beer
Orange Cream Soda
Sweet Tea

Coming Next Week:

Strawberries
Spinach

Barter

2011-06-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

We are always looking for ways to recycle and reuse and sometimes the easiest way to accomplish that is via barter. With that said, here is a list of items we need.

Items:

1.) A chipper/shredder
2.) Barn siding. (About 12 square)
3.) Home Depot/Menards/Lowes Gift Cards
4.) A compost tumbler
5.) A two person utility vehicle (Like a Kawasaki Mule or John Deere Gator)
6.) A 4x4 ATV
7.) A commercial refrigerator and/or freezer
8.) A 4x4 tractor with loader.
9.) A 4x4 farm vehicle.
10.) Goats

Services:

1.) Stump grinding.
2.) Exterior painting.
3.) Irrigation installation.
4.) Gate and/or fencing installation
5.) Masonry services.

What We Have To Barter:

1.) A Massey Ferguson 165 Tractor
2.) CSA Subscriptions http://farm651.blogspot.com/2010/09/our-2011-csa-plan.html
3.) Fisher Paykel 36in Gas Range. Brand New.
4.) Fisher Paykel Dish Drawer. Brand New.

5.) Kohler Sinks. All kinds, finishes. Brand New.
6.) 42in Americast 3 Basin Sink. Brand New.
7.) Six Brand New Eljer Urinals
8.) A Parcel of Real Estate. ( Vacant Lot in Lochenheath Golf Community Williamsburg MI )
9.) A Parcel of Real Estate ( Vacant Lot in Rim Club Golf Community Payson AZ )

Update May 5 2011

2011-05-05T17:36:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to those who attended our ribbon cutting ceremony 05.05.2011. We sincerely appreciate your patronage and continued support of our project. A short snipet of the event was posted on Youtube.

Additionally, our Farm 651 CSA was featured in the Record Eagle. http://record-eagle.com/features/x528374973/CSA-shareholders-get-more-than-food

Our recipe testing is progressing nicely. We have perfected the brownies. We also have some promising cupcakes that we tested at the ribbon cutting. Recipes pics were posted on Facebook.

If anyone is interested in helping us test our line of dry mixes, we still have samples available. Just take them home, add the wet ingredients, bake, and give us your feedback.

CSA Q&A Session April 23rd 10am.

2011-04-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

Join us in the barn for coffee and pastries as we hand out information on our CSA, answer questions, and do onsite signups. We will be giving tours of our facility and outlining our goals for the 2011 season.

See the full event details, including location, at http://www.meetup.com/farm651/events/16549163/

Our Chicken Expansion

2011-04-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

We found a plan for the coop modeled after the attached picture. Hopefully it will be done within the next 5 weeks. We have started our flock. We have 15 Araucanas in route. In the brooder we currently have 5 Rhode Island Reds, 5 Buff O's, and 5 Isa Browns. This should make for a nice color assortment of farm fresh leelanau eggs. We may have some extra space in the coop if any of our CSA's members need a home for their chick!

We Are Flattered - Farm 651 in Traverse "Best Of" Competition

2011-03-08T07:36:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to say that Farm 651 has been nominated in the Traverse "Best Of" Competition. Many thanks to those that nominated us. Farm 651 is competing in the following categories and we would appreciate your vote.

Best Cherry Pie
Best Bread to Munch On
Best Farmers Market

VOTE NOW

Big Meeting Tonight 3/1/2011

2011-03-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

We wanted to remind you about a planning commission meeting tonight at 730pm. It is being held at the Solon Fire Hall. The new Agtourism draft is being discussed and we would really appreciate your support. If you are unable to attend, please call the zoning administrator Tim Cypher at 231-360-2557 and let him know your thoughts!

I am attaching a link to the details... http://leelanaunews.com/drupal/index.php?q=node%2F27170

Jeremiah's Dinner Series at Farm 651

2011-02-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

Northwestern Michigan College Culinary Institute invites you to sit down for a delicious four course meal with honors chef Jeremiah Shields. Held at Farm 651 in Cedar Michigan as part of NMC's Culinary Honors Program, this dinner will show preparation and serving of a variety of tasty items including an Autumn Panzanella Salad, Beef Tenderloin, and Spiced Pumpkin Cake. Enjoy!
Produced by UpNorth Media Center

VIDEO LINK

Farm 651 Design Contest

2011-02-01T18:15:00.000-08:00

We want to create a line of tshirts and Farm 651 souvenir garments that tell our story. I have attached a picture of a tshirt line from http://republicoffloyd.com in Virginia as inspiration. If we select your designs for use on our shirts and hats, we will give you a free subscription to our CSA for the 2011 season ($525 value). Submit all designs via email to farm651@hotmail.com. We will post the best designs online and let our fans vote. Contest ends February 15th, 2011. Good luck!!

Coming in 2011

2011-01-13T16:24:00.000-08:00

We wanted to give everyone an update as to what we are working on for 2011.

1.) We want to offer bulk spices and food products. Specifically spices, flours, mixes, coffee, etc. So often when putting together the perfect recipe you find yourself needing a pinch of this and a cup of that. Bulk bins allow you to buy just what you need.

2.) We really want to expand our doughnut offerings. They will be made fresh daily and we will expand our flavors and varieties. We can even make you a dozen while you wait. We will offer them every morning starting at 7am.

3.) In 2011 we will be offer canning seminars and cooking demonstrations. We are setting up our kitchen to allow for easy viewing and look forward to showcasing techniques new and old.

4.) Animals are coming. In 2011, Farm 651 will welcome Moon and Tykota. These beautiful horses will certainly add some flare to the property. We also plan on adding a family of approx 100 chickens for organic eggs and poultry.

We are always looking for new ideas and welcome suggestions and business proposals for our friends and neighbors. See you May 1st!! - Jason & Junie

Update Agtourism

2011-01-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

The planning commission approved the Agtourism Draft as written and sent it to the County Planners for review. Farm 651 strongly supports these efforts and is thankful for everyone who has worked towards these changes.

Solon Planning Commission

2010-12-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

Tonight at 730 the Solon Township Planning Commission is meeting to discuss the final revisions to the AgTourism draft. Anybody who has a stake in farming should probably attend and make your thoughts known. I would be happy to email a draft to anyone who is interested. The meeting is being held at Cedar Fire Department Meeting room.

CSA Offering Expands

2010-11-22T18:24:00.000-08:00

We will be adding prepared food to our CSA offerings in 2011 similar to the wonderful work being done by the http://www.harvest-kitchen.com in Ann Arbor. Hopefully this addition will make eating healthy local food possible even for those that don't have the time to cook.

The Storm

2010-10-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

We closed a few days due to the storm. As you can see from the farmstand pic below, we sustained some damage! Nonetheless, we will put it all together and reopen Friday morning. Lets hope for a beautiful weekend.

Antique Apples

2010-09-28T19:02:00.000-07:00

We have just received a batch of really rare antique apples. In the following varities....

Macoun (similar to macintosh)
Northen Spy (great for pies)
Tolman Sweet (tastes like a pear, baking)
Ozark Gold (similar to golden delicious)
Wolf River (worlds best baking apple)
Wealthy (tart and crispy, also great for baking)

Quantities limited. Hurry while supplies last.

Berry Season

2010-09-27T07:30:00.001-07:00

Being that Berry season is winding down, we will be featuring blueberry and rasberries in this weeks pies and culinary treasures. Blueberry scones and muffins, mixed berry pie, etc. You might also see a few pumpkin/chocolate chip specialities sitting around!

Our 2011 CSA Plan

2010-09-23T14:53:00.001-07:00

We are proud to announce our 2011 CSA Plan. The plan is built around flexibility and choices. All participants will be allocated a certain number of points that they can use as they please. You can pickup the produce at our market 7 days a week. You can skip a week and retain your points for use the next week. If you choose, we can also deliver your share for a small fee. Don't like carrots, well you don't have to use any of your points on them. Instead, use them for something you do like. Additionally, we will include bake goods as part of our standard offering. Pies, breads, cookies, scones, etc.

We have set our 2011 full share price at $525 or 262.50 for a half. You are essentially receiving a 30% discount on our already low prices for being a member of the CSA. To signup, please click and pay via the paypal button on the sidebar. You can also email farm651@hotmail.com for additional information and clarification.
CSA Details & Specifications Doc

Feedback On Junies Pies From a Customer

2010-09-22T16:59:00.000-07:00

Jason,

We had a piece of the pie last night with ice cream and it was wonderful. This morning for breakfast had another and like before could not be better. Very moist very juicy and just the right sweetness. You can taste the apples and the crust just as tender as if my mother made the pie. This is the best pie I have purchased in this area in the last 4 years.Keep up the good work.

-John

Moomers

2010-09-20T15:02:00.000-07:00

We are now serving Moomers by the quart. Currently we have German Chocolate, Vanilla, Butter Pecan, and Supermoo. More flavors available soon!

WE HAVE PASSED!!

2010-09-17T05:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, you heard me correctly! We have passed all of the inspections needed to open our BIG market this weekend. So with that said, this Saturday at 9am we will open our orange building for all. Please stop by and say hi. We will be serving free coffee, and have baked goods to sample. Additionally, we are proud to serve MOOMERS ice cream by the scoop in all of your favorite flavors.

Many thanks to everyone involved in this project and we look forward to serving you for the years to come! - Jason, Junie, & Bev.

Doughnuts Today Starting at 7am.

2010-09-14T03:18:00.000-07:00

We will be offering doughnuts today for 3.00. Coffee is included at no extra charge. Please join us.

This Weekend & An Apple Update

2010-09-10T09:37:00.000-07:00

We Have Pumpkins!

Saturday morning we will be featuring Orange Rolls, Lemon Rolls, and Cinnamon Rolls. We will also have candied apples available for the kids and as an added bonus, get a free pumpkin with every purchase over $20.00.

We currently have Macintosh apples available at .25c each. Next week we will have Paula Reds. The week of 9/20 we will have Ida's.

See you soon

Sunday September 5th, 2010

2010-09-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

We will be open tomorrow, weather permitting. Peach pie, plum pie, apple pie, bagels, doughnuts, scones, french bread, orange rolls, and more.

We are also featuring sweet potatoes, summer squash, and a host of other fresh veggies.

Weather Delay

2010-09-04T05:40:00.000-07:00

Closed today due to rain/mud and other assorted nastiness.

A Success

2010-09-02T17:47:00.000-07:00

We would like to extend a big "Thank You" to everyone who attended our opening day. Junie is proud to say that she sold out of her pies, and ALL of the baked goods for that matter. Our kitchen will be busy overnight while we work to replenish our supply for the upcoming holiday weekend. Pics posted below.

WE ARE OPENING

2010-09-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

We are opening for our first day of business 9/2/2010. The roadside stand will keep us busy for the first few days and we will open the big market sometime next week. It is a really exciting day for us and we hope you can join us!

Stand Ready - Finishing Touches

2010-08-26T17:49:00.000-07:00

Our roadside stand is coming along - just needs paint. Photos posted. The drywall is nearly done and I was putting the finshing touches on the shower today.

Update 08/23/2010

2010-08-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

We are still steaming ahead trying to make our goal of opening the Farmers Markert 9/2/2010. This week we have carpenters, drywallers, plumbers, and electricians on the jobsite at the same time. We are finish grading the parking lot, installing the cistern, and somewhere in between need to find time to paint everything.

We have setup a facebook group to promote our Grand Opening. Please join our group and RSVP for our big day.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/event.php?eid=146955318666194&ref=mf

Update 08/18/2010

2010-08-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

Rough electric approved. Rough plumbing approved. Insulation and drywall delivered. Klingaman excavation is installing the septic and grading the parking areas. Its going to be close, but we WILL be ready for our September 2nd opening.

Junie has been practicing her recipes baking pies, cinnamon buns, doughnuts, blueberry pancakes - all of the delicious items we plan to sell in our market. Pictures below.

Junie Finished Her First Gift Basket

2010-08-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

We are going to concentrate the baskets on Leelanau produce and culinary delights. Picture below.

Gardeners and Farmers Needed

2010-08-08T18:34:00.001-07:00

We are looking for individuals that have a knack for growing fantastic vegetables and fruits! We are http://www.farm651.com and we are looking to form partnerships with gardeners and farmers whereas...

1.) We lease you a portion of our land in exchange for a percentage of the yield. Specifically, if you need a 50x80 plot to grow the worlds best blueberries - we can help with that. In exchange, we get a portion of the yield to sell at our farm market. You keep what you need, and make money selling us any leftover portion of your percentage. We are looking for a wide range of items. Basically, anything that grows well in Northern Michigan. Especially GRAPES!

2.) Perhaps you already have the land and a garden. In that case, maybe we can buy some of your Leelanau grown items. Send us your thoughts and proposals. We are looking to make this a true community based farm.

Progress

2010-08-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

The slab was poured this week. We have walls framed, and we start wiring and plumbing next week. Grand opening on track for September 2nd. Our business partner and associate Beverly Granger will be contacting potential vendors to arrange for the tastiest produce in Leelanau County.

Construction This Week

2010-07-31T17:48:00.000-07:00

Water and electric were trenched to the market. Rough plumbing finished and approved Friday. The slab will be poured the first of next week, with interior framing and finishing shortly thereafter.

Cedar Farmers Market

2010-07-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

We have found a way to make the Farm Market happen. We are seeking Leelanau based farmers to participate. Please send us a quick email or give us a call if you would be interested in getting more information. This market will be in a highly visible location, and done in a very tasteful - upscale fashion.

We Have Moved!

2010-07-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

Our occupancy permit was granted and we are now in Michigan fulltime until November. We are eager to make new friends and start farming! Some quick pics posted below.

Occupancy Permit

2010-06-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

All is finished in the house and we have applied for our certificate of occupancy. We could not be happier with the results and want to extend our sincere appreciation to...

First Class Wiring Inc.
firstclasswiring@hotmail.com
231-631-6776

Bardenhagen Plumbing
John Bardenhagen
231-499-8695

North Haven Construction
Mark Poineau
231-633-1014

Brezin Acoustical Finishes (Drywall)
Bryan Brezin
231-633-2400

Our Pine Stands Are Falling

2010-05-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, we have about 12 acres comprised of three pine stands midway through the property.

This is an old christmas tree planting that nobody ever harvested. The trees are too close and about as big and tall as they could get without intervention. With that said, we have contracted with a forester who will clear cut all but about 150-200 of the best trees.

We will let these mature for a few more years and ultimately we will use them for a log home. In the meantime, we plan to remove the stumps left behind by the other trees and begin to convert the old christmas tree plantation to farming and pasture usage.

Zoning Hearing May 4th , 2010

2010-04-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Public Hearing Notice

SOLON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
PO BOX 253
CEDAR, MI 49621
PHONE (231) 360-2557 - FAX (231) 256-7774

PUBLIC HEARING

The Solon Township Planning Commission has scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, May 4th, 2010, at 7:00 pm in the Solon Township Fire Hall, 8907 Railroad Avenue, Cedar, MI to receive public comment on the following:

A request from James Jason Properties, LLC, to obtain approval pursuant to Section 5.03(6) of the Solon Township Zoning Ordinance as required in the Agricultural Conservation (AC) District for a Conditional Use Farm Retail Market. The parcel tax number is 45-010-008-013-00 and is located at 9595 S. Cedar Road, Solon Township, Leelanau County, Michigan, Section 8, T28N R12W.

For further information, or to submit written comments, please contact the Solon Township Planning and Zoning Office, P.O. Box 226, Lake Leelanau, MI 49653, or call (231) 360-2557, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or FAX (231) 256-7774.

Solon Township will provide necessary and/or reasonable auxiliary aides and services for the hearing impaired and other persons with disabilities upon seven (7) days notice to the Solon Township Zoning Administrator at the address and phone number above.

Grand Opening

2010-04-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

It is almost here!!! We need to finish the house. Lay the slab and paint the pole barn... the list seems endless. Nonetheless, progress is being made and we are trying to plan our grand opening party. The tentative date is June 12th. We plan on inviting the entire county of Leelanau. We will keep everyone posted as details are finalized.

Getting Ready For Spring

2010-03-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Things are happening at Farm 651. The Farm Store should be habitable by May 1st. The rough plumbing and electrical were completed and drywall is scheduled for next week. Shortly thereafter the tilework and painting will start.

The barn is nearly complete as well. All it needs is a slab poured (after the frost restrictions are lifted), paint, and some stone work on the columns.

As for our farming efforts - approx 100 cherry trees will be replanted in April. The first batch died through a combination of my stupidity and a hungry herd of deer. We will also be planting a 1/2 acre vegetable garden to support my wifes affinity for gourmet salad!

We are taking applications for part time farm labor to assist with the projects listed above. Special thanks to John Bardenhagen Plumbing and FCWI Electric. They did a fantastic job - inspections approved 1st time, everytime.

Green Features of Our Pole Barn

2010-01-29T08:08:00.000-08:00

I thought I would take a minute to expand on some of the cool green features we plan to implement on our pole barn.

1.) The concrete slab will utilize fly ash. For reasons why fly ash is good for the environment please visit http://www.flyash.com/data/upimages/press/HWR_brochure_flyash.pdf

2.) We are using recycled cedar shakes for the siding. These would otherwise be in the landfill.

3.) We implemented an Energy Star rated steel roof.

4.) There will be an elaborate system of gutters and drains that will be used to recycle rainwater into our underground cisterns. This rainwater will be used to irrigate our garden and hops operation.

Now Taking Bids - Carriage House

2009-12-18T07:57:00.000-08:00

We are posting plans and details for our next building online so that we may begin to receive bids for work. We will accept proposals for the following... plumbing, electrical, flatwork, insulation, and drywall. We are also posting the materials list as we will consider buying 2nd hand windows, doors, lumber, siding, stone veneer, etc as long as they are in excellent condition. Bids can be faxed to 480-832-0111 or emailed to farm651@hotmail.com. Plans, photos, and materials are posted on the sidebar for review. Plumbers please note that we will be utilizing a greywater recycling system that is not reflected in the plans. Additionally, an infloor radiant heat system will be utilized - heated by an exterior wood boiler.

Farmers Market

2009-12-01T19:21:00.000-08:00

We have cleared space for a 30x60 pole barn (our second structure) that we ultimately plan to use as a farmers market. I have no idea who would be interested in participating, but I have asked the MSU to consider our site for next spring. Empire has one, as does Northport and Suttons Bay - why shouldn't Cedar? Anybody that might be interested in participating please send an email to farm651@hotmail.com . I will attach a pic of the structure underconstruction below.

Green Building Resource

2009-11-05T11:51:00.000-08:00

I found a great inspriration in green building. Please take a look at http://www.greensburggreentown.org. It tells the story of a rural town that was leveled by a tornado in 2007. They have committed to rebuilding their community using sustainable energy and green building concepts. Additionally, they were the focus of a recent design competition in partnership with http://www.freegreen.com. Please take a look at some of the floor plans they have available. They demonstrate that green building does not need to be more expensive and it certainly does not require any sacrifice in comfort or lifestyle.

November Update

2009-11-01T15:14:00.001-08:00

We have power to the farmstore, a functioning septic system, and a locked air tight building. The exterior is complete with the exception of some trim painting. The interior insulation will be done the first week November and should pull together the exposed truss ceiling system I have envisioned.

As for the farm, we have covered the base of each tree with hay to deter weed growth. Additionally, the culvert is complete which will allow management of the back timber stand. The ash from the burn pile will enrich the soil in the future vineyard and hops yard.

Now Taking Bids

2009-10-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

Our goal is to construct five buildings in the next two years. The first of which is our farmstore. The exterior is complete, and we are now ready for electric, plumbing, drywall, tile, etc. We are taking bids for these items. Those that are interested should send an email to farm651@hotmail.com

NOTE* We will only accept bids on specialty trades. Our carpenter/GC (Mark Poineau) is incredible and he will be working on our project through completion. The same holds true for our excavator - Brian Weber. There is nobody better and we consider him a permanent partner.

Our second building - the farmers market - has been approved, materials ordered and we will be started the third week of December.

Our third building - the carriage house - will be submitted for permits in December. The shell should be complete in late March.

The fourth building will be a massive 3 story garage and storage area. Our goal is to break ground in June of 2010.

The fifth building will be a big house - and our most luxurious structure. The tentative start date is April 2011.

These structures will all utilize green building concepts. Solar, greywater recycling, and the best insulation technology available. We hope to chronicle the project so that others can see how beautiful "green" structures can be built without increasing the cost of construction over typically accepted practices.

We want partners and not just contractors. Individuals who want to try something new. Contractors who don't mind experimenting. Contractors willing to step out of the box. If this sounds like you - please contact Mark and communicate your desire to get involved. In exchange for your innovation and competitive pricing, we will make your involvement in our project known and give you the ability to use our buildings as a showplace for your skills.

October Progress

2009-10-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

We will be submitting plans for our carriage house for permit this week! (delayed) It will sit adjacent to the farm store and serve as parking and guest quarters. If you look closely, you can see that the building pad has been graded. Our goal is to have the carriage house weather tight by the end of the year. (picture below) We will be implementing some new items on this structure including grey water recycling, solar panels, and SIPS walls.

Additionally, the DEQ approved the culvert over our stream. It will be installed the week of 10/12/09 (DONE) and forestry activities will resume so that we can clear up the stands of dead wood to make room for some new hardwood plantings.

The exterior of the farmstore is now complete. The septic has been installed and interior framing complete. We are currently taking bids for the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.

Ecoseeds.org will start the process of constructing a deer fence, and preparing our soil and current orchards for a robust 2010!

Its Going To Be Cold Soon!

2009-09-27T16:53:00.000-07:00

Well, we have done alot since our last post. We have planted rye cover crops in both the orchard and our future winery. The deer are especially happy about that progress. We are looking to enlist the helo of local non-profits to help further our farming efforts. Additionally, we are looking into the possibility of building a bunkhouse so that we might be able to exchange room and board for labor.

As for the farmstand, I applied for the permits necessary to convert it to a single family dwelling. The exterior is nearly complete, and we hope to be done with the interior improvements by the end of October provided we can pass all needed inspections. Mark Poineau has done an incredible job and I will highly recommend his contracting services to all who inquire.

ps. - Looking forward to attending the MSU extension hops seminar 10/2/09

My Take On Green Building

2009-09-08T12:28:00.001-07:00

For our first structure, I chose to build a block building. Everybody knows that block stands the test of time. It is solid, and not subject to rot and moisture damage like wood products. However, whenever you hear or read about the latest in "green building" - this material is somehow not mentioned. Here is my take....

1.) Block is usually manufactured locally. Usually coming from a plant no more than 30 miles from the jobsite.

2.) With proper insulation methods, block can have a R-Value equal to if not greater than stick frame construction.

I know, everyone will say that SIPS (structural insulated panel systems) is the green solution. However, most of these panels are manufactured in states far far away. This means that they have to be transported great distances which obviously requires fuel and greenhouse gas emissions.

We are always open to using the products and techniques that will yield the highest quality structure possible while minimizing the negative effects on the environment.

Thoughts????

An August Update

2009-08-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

Well, we got alot done in July. The footings were set, the walls erected, trusses set, irrigation mainline complete! Thanks to the help of our wonderful subs, the construction quality is top notch and I am thrilled with the results. The apple trees are looking incredible - the cherries are hanging on for dear life. Goals for the next month..

1.) Roof steel installed. DONE
2.) Siding installed. DONE
3.) Door and garage door opener installed. DONE
4.) Windows installed. DONE
5.) Well equipment moved inside. DONE
6.) Electric panel installed. DONE

July Happenings!

2009-07-12T21:59:00.000-07:00

We have alot planned in July.

1.) I have one focus! Get the farmstand started. I have posted the plan pics below. Footings, slab, walls, trusses, windows, and roof. I want it watertight by Mid-August. DONE

2.) I will be installing the irrigation system without professional assistance. Our plan is to run a 2 inch mainline through the orchard and finish it off with multiple spigots and trickle tape. DONE

Friends, Contributors, and Contractors

2009-06-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the wonderful contractors and friends who have helped out thus far.

1. North Haven Construction. Mark Poineau 231-633-1014 http://www.feedahammer.com/
2. Weber Excavating. Brian Weber 231-228-6898
3. William Shum (Logos and Artwork) 647-295-7724 will_shum@hotmail.com
4. Curtis Hanson Consumers Electric
5. B&Z Well Drilling http://www.bnzwelldrilling.com/
6. Cedar Hardware (231) 228-5417
7. John Bischoff Chain of Lakes Tree Service http://www.chainoflakestree.com/

And Most Importantly... Many, Many Thanks to Beverly Granger of REMAX Bayshore. A Tireless Professional Who's Service Will Not Stop, Even After The Sale! http://www.beverlygranger.com/. Phone 231-714-2737