 | The Farm In 1978 Michael Simon purchased the nearly twelve acre farm after leasing it for three years. The orchard grew Red and Golden Delicious apples at that time, which were the mainstay of the apple market for decades. Eventually times changed and Michael realized that returning to a more natural way of farming could enhance the quality of the produce, the health of the farm and the river habitat. He started by becoming certified organic and diversifying the crops.Then he built an on-site cold storage shed and began direct marketing to stores and to Farmers Markets. More recently he was a founding member of Okanogan Producers Marketing Association (OPMA), a co-op of farms working together to market produce. |
Direct Marketing We direct market to consumers through this website, farmers markets and OPMA, please see 'How to Buy' in the menu above. When consumers purchase locally grown organic produce that has been handled minimally, they receive a superior product. Studies show that produce consumed closer to harvest time has higher nutritional content. A farmer that direct markets is good for both the farmer and the consumer. Although it does require more work than farming alone, the farmer benefits in the way that he connects with the people who are nourished by his food everyday. Feedback towards taste, texture and overall quality contribute greatly to a superior product. | |  |
 | | Harvest Season Our harvest season begins near the 4th of July with beautiful red cherries. Cherry season gives way to Apricots which progesses into Peach season. September is the beginning of Apple season and is the peak production period of the orchard. With seven varieties we have a bounty of fresh, crispy apples off the tree through October. Our apples keep in both commercial CA (controlled atmostphere) storage and our on-site cooler. Generally the apples that do not sell out will keep through Spring, |