On this tour, we will discuss the benefits and challenges of establishing a broad array of edible and medicinal plants. We will also describe opportunities to diversify the small farm economy and ecology through USDA conservation program offerings, especially NRCS programs.

More about the Farmers:

Laughing Linden Farm is committed to cultivating diversity and abundance by creating a poly-cultural, multi-use, food-forest sanctuary. Farm owners Eran and Stephanie Rhodzell are planting an immense diversity of nut, fruit, berry, medicinal, and other beneficial plants adapted for their climate. Recently they contracted with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for an Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to establish more trees and shrubs on their property for reforestation and the restoration of native plant communities.

As the farm grows, Eran and Stephanie hope to make their living off a thriving natural landscape. Their plan for products and services includes medicinal herbs, a plant nursery, u-pick berries and fruit, flowers, wholesale fruits and nuts, value-added products, educational workshops, music, spiritual gatherings, and more. They supplement farm income by offering edible and medicinal landscaping services to farmers and landowners across NW Lower Michigan.