Clayton, GA
MEET DARBY:
Where did you grow up and how did it influence your life? I grew up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in the heart of Amish Country. As a teen, I took for granted the lush agricultural community that surrounded me and had no real interest in farming. After going to College, I found my love for Conservation Ecology could be actionable within the study and practice of Sustainable Agriculture. I have since devoted my days to bridging the gap between natural and cultivated spaces and growing healthful food utilizing methods that harness and support biodiversity and integrity within the ecosystems I farm.
How did your journey to farming begin? I originally went to the University of Pittsburgh as a pre-med student. I was interested in physical wellness and biology, but the large sterile classrooms and laboratories did not resonate with me. I decided to transfer to Sterling College in Northern Vermont in hopes of spending time outside and studying nature and our relationship to it. I visited local farms and saw with my own eyes how important small scale farmers are and how they protect land by making it productive. This integration of humans back into the natural world was exactly what I felt I was meant to do. Growing food as an ally to nature not only restored the landscapes I worked, but it yielded the most nutritious, wholesome products for the community who supported me.
Anything you wish you had done along the way and didn’t do? Farming can be a very isolating career. I see my friends who have pursued other means of income traveling and taking vacations and I sometimes wish I had taken more time to see the world. This regret is one I have on and off, but I try and remember how my intimate connection to the land I work is a journey all its own. Rising early with the sun and going to sleep as the sun descends; this rhythm is very fulfilling and adventurous in its own way.
Is there anyone in particular who inspired your journey and why? So many people have inspired me on my journey – fellow farmers, mentors, innovators on Instagram, local food activists, and especially my husband. We’ve been on this road together a long time and it hasn’t always been easy or smooth. He sees things differently than me and that balance between us is the reason for all of our success. I am also especially grateful for my mentors, Hugh Lovel, Shabari Bird, and Jeff Poppen. Their insights, love, and support have given me the courage to persist through the failures and challenges; their wisdom a guiding light.
What is your favorite way to unwind after a long day? I love to unwind by the creek or on a hike to a local waterfall. I enjoy eating and cooking homegrown meals and I treasure moments spent around a fire with friends. After a long day’s work you can usually find me somewhere cuddled up with my dogs, taking a break from the sun.
LIFE ON THE FARM:
What do you grow/produce at Timpson Creek? We grow certified organic vegetables, medicinal and culinary herbs, berries, and raise a few goats.
Do you have a favorite crop? I have a rotating door of favorite crops that changes with the seasons, but I’d have to say this year I am very excited by the progress of our blueberry bushes and heirloom tomatoes.
Five must-haves that you grow: Blueberries • Blackberries •Tomatoes • Kale • Garlic
Where do you sell your products? We sell to local restaurants such as Fortify, Fortify Pi in Clayton and Restaurant Lorene in Young Harris, GA. We also sell to local catering outfits like Chef David Sweeney. Every Saturday we have a farm stand from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM opening June 16th and closing in mid October.
https://www.facebook.com/timpsoncreekfarm/
Instagram & Twitter @TimpsonCreekFarm
