2023-07-18 04:52:41
Loudoun is a rich tapestry of family farms embracing sustainable agriculture and ethical grazing and growing practices that nourish the soil – and the soul. We profile two families leaving a legacy. THE ZURSCHMEIDE FAMILY, GREAT COUNTRY FARMS Agritourism pioneer Bob Zurschmeide started selling vegetables out of a truck in western Loudoun in the 1980s. Today, his descendants oversee 300-acre Great Country Farms and its winery, brewery and cidery spin-offs. “At GCF we practice full circle farming,” farmer Andrew Taylor, Bob’s grandson, said. “Acres of fruit and veg provide a nutrient-rich orchard floor for the sheep, cows and chickens – and fresh produce for customers. Visitors can pick their own or buy from our farm market while leftovers are used for composting or feeding pigs to complete the circle.” Agritourism and education is a big component of GCF, with thousands of tourists, students and campers visiting each year. THE WISCH FAMILY, LONG STONE FARM Casey and Justin Wisch’s grass-based, pesticide-free livestock operation produces beef, pork, lamb, chicken and eggs. “We focus on natural grazing, letting the animals do the work,” Casey said. On top of operating two farm stores in Loudoun, they host “Sunday Suppers” May-October: farm tours followed by a meat-centric four-course dinner. “It’s a true farm to fork experience,” Casey said. “If I can get my kids to develop a passion for farming and why eating organic meat and looking after the land is worthwhile, I will be proud.” "I was born in Iran during the Revolution. To escape the war, my parents would take us camping in the mountains. My dad would cook traditional Persian dishes on an open fire and roast garlic in the hot coals. Today, when I cook garlic the aroma reminds me of those days, the feeling of freedom and love from my family. Garlic is so versatile. It can be chopped and added to a dish, ground into powder to use on breads and pickled with vinegar to enjoy as a side dish. It boosts immunity, reduces cholesterol and makes for a healthy heart.” – Garlic farmer Farinoush Jewell, Farrah’s Farm, Round Hill
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