We believe everyone should have a healthy relationship with their food.

I’ve spent most of my career in a dance studio, so how did we end up with a farm?

My name is Kelly, and Lord help me, I am now a farmer.

My husband, Chris, and I started this journey in 2018 with our three kids McKenzie, Sophie, and Jack.  I never dreamed of owning land and livestock in rural Virginia.  Five years ago, you could have never convinced me that I would grow our own food and teach our kids from our farm one day.

So what changed?

We lived in Australia for three years as part of the military and noticed a difference in the food system. Fruits and vegetables would spoil after a few days, rather than almost 2 weeks in the states, and animals were raised on beautiful green paddocks next to the ocean, instead of overcrowded pens.

We started to see that there was a better way.

So here I am with a sheep named Wilson who swims in my pool, and a chicken named Blanche who likes to keep me company on the back porch.

We’re focusing on the health and vitality of the land through regenerative farming, and our mission is simple:  serve the SOIL, serve the ANIMALS, and serve the COMMUNITY.

We’ve recently expanded our operations and opened What The Farm Store so we can share farm to table with others. We provide local families with an affordable way to bring home food free of chemicals and hormones.

We believe you should know where your food comes from and the farming practices used to produce it.

…. or better yet, join us as farmers! No experience necessary.

– The Shepherd Family – Chris, Kelly, McKenzie, Sophie, and Jack!

 

Live Market Dates

We'll be visiting upcoming markets with our Farm To Table poultry, eggs, and lamb! Several cuts are available. Come visit our stand!

Virginia Farmers Market

What exactly does “pasture raised” mean?

For us, it means moving our our chickens to a new patch of grass each day. This provides them with fresh clean grass free of poop 💩 and lots of 🐛 to eat!

Why not let the roam free instead of keeping them in a “tractor”? 

2 reasons....

1️⃣ it’s good for the land. Rotation of animals gives our pasture time to rest and regenerate.

2️⃣ It’s good for the chickens. This structure keeps them safe from predators while still allowing them to have fresh air and all the “chicken things” like 🌱 🐛 and dirt!

How to Support Your Farmers Out of Season

How to Support Your Farmers Out of Season

It’s that time of year again. Farmer’s markets are closing up shop for the season. I've got 4 ideas to support your farmers and favorite makers (a chicken farmer, soap makers, cheesemonger, and tea specialist) until spring. Farmer's Markets Many of us are ready for a...

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Delicious Fall Treats To Make With Apples

Delicious Fall Treats To Make With Apples

Apple season is in full bloom! Over the last few weeks, we’ve been using local apples in our Food Preservation classes. What do we make with apples? We make some of my mom’s favorite fall-inspired treats: apple chips and apple butter. In this article, I am...

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Here on the farm, we have continuous outtakes, homeschool lessons, and store updates to share. Sign up for our What The Farm Weekly Newsletter to never miss an announcement or blooper!

For both local Virginia and out-of-state followers!

 

© 2020-2024 What The Farm | Brand + Site Design by Kristin Korn of CORE Brand Marketing Boutique

We are in compliance with the rules and regulations of the state of Virginia and have adequate liability protection in place.

Never Miss An Update!

Here on the farm, we have continuous outtakes, homeschool lessons, and store updates to share. Sign up for our What The Farm Weekly Newsletter to never miss an announcement or blooper!

 

For both local Virginia and out of state followers!

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