Mountaindale Farms

Mountaindale Farms, owned and operated by Richard and Heather Brown, is located in Bloomfield, Kings County (which is halfway between Saint John and Sussex New Brunswick). Richard’s grandfather had originally started the farm in 1943 and, in 1978, Richard took it over. At over 800 acres, Mountaindale produces a variety of vegetables and berries; however, their grass-fed beef is their main focus.

 All the beef at the farm is certified organic and grass-fed, providing excellent health benefits to customers. Beef is sold by the side, box, or individual cuts. Raspberries, asparagus, and u-pick strawberries are available in season as well, all certified organic.

 Richard decided to certify after attending the ACORN organic conference.  He soon found that by farming organically, he greatly improved the health of his herd.  He had also disliked spraying his crops, saying “if you’re going to use synthetic sprays, you yourself are going to be directly exposed to it.” For these reasons, Richard and Heather chose to certify the farm, and it gives them peace of mind to know they have healthy soil and land. “These are things that you can’t put a monetary value on,” says Richard.

 Life on an organic farm is never easy - weather is always unpredictable and insects and weeds a constant battle. ”There isn’t the range of organic pest control products the United States have, so we are always trying new techniques,” says Richard. One other notable challenge is educating the consumer about the benefits of organic products, and why they cost more than conventional. Finally, Richard would like to see many more farmers get involved before it’s too late. “It’s only a few years until an entire generation of farmers is gone,” he says.  “We’re trying to impart our skills to the younger generation and we’re heartened by anyone who chooses to make a career of farming.”  Hopefully the talented duo will keep farming for many years yet - organic food seems to have kept them very healthy and active!