Saving Our Land
The old barn – 2019
We grew up next door to the farm. We watched as cows grazed in the pasture, and the old barn was always humming with the rhythm of daily milking. These small dairy farms were once a familiar sight across New England.
But as the years went by, it became harder for these small-scale operations to make ends meet, and slowly, our neighbor’s farm, a place we knew so well, started to show the strain. The pastures began their slow return to forest, and the once-busy barn took on a quiet, almost haunted air.
Over the following decades, we witnessed many similar farms in our area being sold off, replaced by the concrete and asphalt of shopping malls and housing developments. Then, in 2019, we heard the news: our neighbors were preparing to sell this 52-acre farm to developers.
That’s when we knew we had to act. Our family, deeply connected to this land and its history, scraped together our resources and intervened just in time, purchasing the property to prevent its development and to begin the work of restoring its ecological and agricultural richness.
The new barn – 2025
Our past experiences in sustainable farming and conservation taught us a fundamental truth: for meaningful impact that lasts, financial stability is essential. While initial support from grants is vital, a reliable income stream is crucial for long-term success. Ultimately, the preservation of this land and its biodiversity depends on the principle of being self-sufficient. Could we truly transform this farm into a thriving enterprise? We firmly believe the answer is yes.
Amherst Mushroom Company is our vision for this kind of sustainable venture. Gourmet mushrooms, increasingly recognized for their nutritional & medicinal value offer a viable and expanding market.
As we grow, we want to add to our offerings, always keeping local preferences in mind. We invite you to contribute to the success of Amherst Mushroom Company by enjoying our fresh, locally grown mushrooms. .
The Beaver Pond
By buying local, you will directly support our efforts to protect vital wetlands that filter our water, create safe nesting habitats for migratory songbirds, the beaver pond, a vibrant vernal pool, and protected wood turtle habitat. Through Amherst Mushroom Company, we are dedicated to ensuring the preservation and flourishing of this ecosystem for generations to come.