Sand Creek Organics, Grand Forks, July 20, 2021
Dieter and Elisabeth Bay have a homestead and orchard on 38 acres up the North Fork in Grand Forks. At the farm tour, they showed participants how they have integrated vegetable, herb, berry and fruit tree production using biodynamic and permaculture principles. Participants witnessed a wide range of crops produced on warm, south facing slopes and discussed water conservation techniques, plant nutrition, crop planning, pest management and nutrient cycling.
Biography: Sand Creek Organics:
Sand Creek Organics started in 2012 with a sloped 4 acre integrated orchard and garden, with pear, cherry, apricot and apple trees. Berries, trees, shrubs and flowers are integrated into the orchard with an emphasis on attracting pollinators and beneficial insects for integrated pest and weed management. There is a strong focus on growing and wild harvesting medicinal plants and creating tea blends for specific purposes including drying powerful greens for a strong herbal infused powder. 90% of their vegetables are from seeds harvested from the farm. Sand Creek sells produce, berries and value-added products to the Kettle Valley Food Co-op and private customers.