Earl Groff grew up in farming. His father purchased their 10.5-acre farm in 1946. Today, Earl, his wife Edith, their son Wesley and his family care for Groff’s Farm and sell beautiful produce at the farm and at the historic Lancaster Central Market. They are conscientious about cultivating the land to produce a bounty for future generations. Groff explains that they use natural pest management methods such as soapy water, eggshells, diatomaceous earth, soybean meal and lime, which also naturally supports soil. Groff also has a greenhouse to help extend the growing season. “People love our celery,” he says. “It’s grown in our greenhouses and is sweetest in the winter months.”

Elisabeth Weaver, of Lancaster Farmacy, grows medicinal herbs, flowers and produce. “We are lucky to have such fertile land to grow on in Lancaster County. We have a mix of silty and sandy loam soils, which promote good drainage, as well as good water retention,” she says. “This comes largely from the geology of the Susquehanna River Valley.” Weaver farms on land that has been fallow and chemical-free for more 20 years. This greatly increases soil fertility because the microbiology of the soil remains plentiful, which benefits the crops.

George Brittenburg and Ola Creston of Taproot Farm have always been passionate advocates for social and environmental justice, so starting a certified organic farm was a natural progression. As a first-generation farmer, Brittenburg looked at the food systems and saw local production and distribution and organic approaches as an essential part of solving environmental problems. “I noticed it was something I was good at through my work in community gardens. I love to do this work, though it’s hard work. It has been challenging to start a farm and keep it running for 14 years. We feel that we’ve made it successful, but it is always a challenge,” Brittenburg relates.

Deanne Boyer’s grandfather started Willow Run Farmstead, and when her father took over the farm he began by raising barn-kept cattle. He and Boyer then transitioned the farm to pastured cattle. Boyer became involved with farm operations six years ago and continues to refine how she approaches her efforts.

She says, “Raising grass-fed beef on pasture allows for the animals to be raised on soil, rather than in a barn, which is restorative to the soil and its ecosystems. It balances the health of the animals, the land and the farmer.” She views the farm as one entity. “I consider not just what the farmer gets out of it, but what the animals and the land get out of it, as well.”

Ethically raised livestock have it much better than their factory-farmed counterparts, and Boyer notes pasture-raised farming allows her to know the herd more intimately and have healthier interactions with the animals.

Boyer knows that grass-fed beef is good for the body, more humane and is more environmentally friendly. She recalls a family that purchases her beef every year, and their young daughter always exclaims that it’s the best. “It feels good to know that I’m taking care of my neighbors,” she states.

Friedens Church

Pastor Inge Williams inherited gardening wisdom from her farming ancestors, which she uses to serve others at a garden at Friedens Lutheran Church, in Shartlesville. Produce grown at the garden is donated to several area food pantries. While Williams’ original intent was to address food insecurity and serve others, she has been surprised by how much gardening helped her grow as a person.“I witnessed the power of the soil, the miraculous unfolding of the tiny seeds, the beauty of a sunset with a hoe in hand and the ways the garden facilitated friendships among volunteers,” she relates.