Our
Mission
Steamboat Island Farm’s mission is to create an inclusive place that provides boutique farm to table items, hosts events, collaborates with local artisans and showcases local products by restoring this landmark property. We strive towards sustainable practices, and recognizing the intrinsic value of all things. Our vision is to live this life and share it with others, creating a space that interacts and engages with our community.
The Beginning
I was fortunate enough to have a special property find me. I became the caretaker of something magical, a special place that was once lost to time.
I came upon this place in the summer of 2020. I had been searching for a piece of property for years to connect my life with nature. When I first saw this place, the immediate answer was Absolutely Not!
And yet, I returned again and again to look at this property that had been abandoned for years, vandalized and used for a garbage dump, with hundreds of beer bottles surrounding the dilapidated structures. Each time I went there, another layer of this property’s secrets would be revealed. Hidden amongst the brambles and dead grass was a beautiful orchard, numerous gardens, and so much more. It was there - you just had to see it - and once I started to, it couldn’t be un-seen. I knew it would take years of tough work, but there it was. I knew I had found my place!
By winter 2020, I had moved on to the property, “as is”, and I wondered several times if I had made a huge mistake. The enormity of what needed to be done almost seemed insurmountable. It didn’t take long for locals to start dropping by, telling me stories of the origins of the property, interested in what would eventually become of it. They offered me company, friendship, and a helping hand when I needed it. I quickly realized that this community was something incredible.
For me to co-exist with THIS property, to be its steward, I will have to work hard to make it something that is an integral part of this community.
In a community, we share what we have. We are strong because we rely on each other - on individuals.
— Scott, FOUNDER
I started small, first making a livable space for myself, getting a few chickens, planting a few leafy greens. My two companions, a Mastiff and a Golden Retriever and I started reinvigorating the grapevines and tending the long-forgotten apple and cherry trees. I built raised vegetable gardens and have planted flowers any spot I can. I have had many successes and so many setbacks. Everyday I learn and grow as this property evolves.
I want this site to be a place that people can follow along with this amazing journey that I am taking. I will share with you the projects that are being done, things that are yet to come. I’ll let you know when things from the farm are available. I want to showcase Artisans that I have met and will meet on the way. This site will grow and change right along with the property. My sincere hope is that you will tag along.
Make a donation.
We work on a shoestring budget, a red one. EVERYTHING you do helps us, tremendously, and true to our vision, we make use of EVERY BIT of it.
When you vote for us, whether with your time or dollars, you’re also casting your intentions and trust. It is an honor, that support is FELT, and that vote of confidence gives us the strength to keep focusing on the prize. It’s going to be a long journey. Sharing it with others is what makes it worth it.
