“Old McDonald had a farm, ee i ee i o.” Everyone knows that part of the story, but few know the less popular but just as accurate version of the song that goes: “Old McDonald had a farm that had high crop yields and supported a wide range of biodiversity across the local ecosystem.”
That second verse may be made up, but its facts are not.
According to data analysis and research done by the University of British Columbia, “Smaller farms, on average, have higher yields and [harbor] greater crop and non-crop biodiversity at the farm and landscape scales than do larger farms.” [1]
These higher levels of biodiversity worldwide are a result of two factors. The first is that small farms tend to grow more types of crops, which provide greater nutritional value and lessen drought risk.
The second factor is small farms have more natural area both between farms and within them, which creates natural green spaces. This, coupled with generally more limited insecticide use, makes small farms natural oases for local insects and animals. [2]
One space like this is Frog Hollow Farm. Located just 10 minutes from the Walla Walla University campus, Frog Hollow Farm specializes in growing and selling heirloom vegetables. [3]
Heirloom vegetables are not mass-distributed but instead have been locally grown and bred by families over generations. They are harder to grow but tend to have richer flavors. [4]
Frog Hollow Farm was founded in 2006 by Jeff and Amy Dietrich. Their kids currently attend WWU.
According to their website, “Frog Hollow Farm grew out of our family's love for growing things. We live, learn, and grow in the heart of the Walla Walla Valley.” [5]
Frog Hollow Farm sells tomatoes, eggplants, and many other vegetables every autumn. Additionally, they sell seeds and flowers year-round. [6]
If you are searching for fresh vegetables or summer work that supports the local environment, Frog Hollow Farm can offer both. Check out their website at https://www.froghollowfarm.com/.
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