Appleby Community Farm

We originally felt called to Nacogdoches, TX in 2007 to purchase and run a Bed and Breakfast. But because of an unexpected detour, God had time to direct our attention to farming. During that two-year interim, we were exposed to the serious problem that is industrial agriculture- beginning with but not exclusively through the culture-changing book, Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan. We became increasingly convinced that we should become part of the solution. In 2009, along with Cindy’s parents, 9 acres were purchased in Appleby Community outside of Nacogdoches. We immediately began to farm – very ineptly, but God blessed our intentions and we had a remarkably successful first fall season. We value our calling. We are called to this endeavor by ourheavenly Father, and we are confident that no hardship or disappointment willsway us from our calling. We value our precious health – physical, emotionaland spiritual – and work to keep it in good balance. We value our relationshipswith people: family, friends and the community. We believe that it is importantto be authentic, honest, and understanding with others and to try to help makea positive difference in this world and that all that we do glorify God andfurther His kingdom. We value continued growth in all areas of our lives, andwe will work for justice, equality, and environmental protection, and a safe,affordable food system. We value the philosophy of letting others live as theywill… without fear of persecution or discrimination. We value living modestly. We try to practice wise management of our financial resources and carry littleor no debt. We want to make an honest living. We enjoy growing and promotingquality organic vegetable products and providing community to those who mayhave none. We believe in leaving our environment better than we found it. Westrive to be good stewards of the land, to maintain and enhance soil, water,and air quality through sustainable farming practices. Our philosophy is to imagine the impact seven generations into the future that any business decision we might make will have. We want to make a positive difference in our community and be good role models and mentors for others who may have an interest in sustainable farming. We will support the local economy as much as we can, realizing that this effort, in itself, helps sustain the community. Appleby Community Farm is growing at a sustainable rate. Weexpect to double our membership each year until we reach our long-term goal of200 member families. Our projections indicate that Cindy will be able to becomea full time farmer along with Bryan as well as hire one full-timeemployee.  At that point, we may consider allying with neighboringsustainable producers. Ultimately, we see the farm becoming a “destination” forlocal families to enjoy the grounds to picnic, fish, or even weed and harvest;for schools to teach about local food production and for other organizations totake advantage of the grounds for events.