Farming Makes a Comeback

By Connie Springer
There's no Aruba, Barbados or Maui for this bunch.

A modern farmer's life still portends grueling hours, endless chores and plenty of sweat, especially in the sweltering summertime when many of us head for the mountains or the beach.

Yet six local farmers insist that they wouldn't have it any other way.

"We don't really take vacations," says Teresa Biagi, of Hazelfield Farm in Owen County, Ky. "There is no place we would rather be."

Each of the farmers speak about being driven by the desire for fresh, unadulterated vegetables, self-sustainability and being close to nature. They find joy in handling the moist, rich soil and in nurturing tiny seeds that grow into fruits which, in turn, provide nourishment. As one farmer put it, farming is a lifestyle, not a job.

And as consumers increasingly look for fresh, local produce, farmers markets have proliferated, giving the farmer an ideal setting in which to sell their bounty.

Whether the farmer works the land full-time or has a day job and farms after-hours, Herculean best describes the level of work involved.

"It takes commitment and persistence, creativity and ingenuity, a whole host of skills, a can-do attitude and a never-give-up mentality," says Jeff Ashba, of the Organic Farm at Bear Creek, in Clermont County.

The farmers agree that the rewards of working in nature far outweigh the sacrifices.

"It is an honor to spend our time outside working and learning from Mother Nature," says Sarah Mancino, who with husband Adam, owns Farm Beach Bethel in Bethel, Ohio.

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