Hurricane Flats is a diversified organic produce farm located on 37 beautiful acres nestled along the banks of the White River in South Royalton, Vermont.
Our farm's name is borrowed from the annals of town history and stems from persistent spring winds that whip through the valley. From dairy farm, to cornfields, to airstrip, to U.S. Army CRREL site, the land itself has undergone various incarnations throughout the years. To preserve its role in the working landscape we conserved the land through the Upper Valley Land Trust and restored the riparian buffers along the White River with the help of the White River Partnership.
Still, lots of hard work and careful planning was in order if we were to rehabilitate the land completely. We quickly began an intensive program of organic farming practices that we proudly continue to this day. We manage soil fertility and control pests and disease through crop rotations, cover cropping, manure and compost applications and a variety of other ecological practices. We constantly marvel at the extent of soil rejuvenation brought about by organic farming practices.
We began very small - just under an acre of freshly turned ground. Slowly and surely the farm grew to its current size. We now have about 15 acres in cultivation each growing season, operate three greenhouses, and grow a mix of about 50 different fruits, vegetables, herbs, berries, and popcorn. Additionally, we make hay from 30 acres sprinkled between our back fields and a handful of neighboring farms. At various times over the years we've boarded horses and raised beef, chicken and goats. For now, though, we're focused on continuing to grow great quality organic produce at a reasonable price.
Hurricane Flats is not only enjoyed for its beauty and its bounty but many locals also take advantage of the recreational potential offered by the river and flat fields.
Summertime brings swimmers, boaters, and 'tubers', while the cooler weather fills the shoreline with people in dedicated pursuit of fly fishing. In the winter, snow machine trails cross the property, and cross country skiers often take advantage of the trail which runs along the river bank.
Not to be outdone by these graceful gliders, we host an annual snow volleyball party in our field. This event is always well-attended, very fun, and anything but graceful!
Melon hunting anyone?
Not every melon meets our highest standards. Check out what happens to those melons not fit for human consumption...