Earthwise Farm and Forest

About the Farm

Earthwise Farm and Forest is a small homestead farm located in Bethel, Vermont, operated by Lisa McCrory, Tuilelaith Russell McCrory, Timber Russell, and Bazel Russell. This certified organic, draft-animal powered diversified family farm sits on 150 acres and represents a deeply rooted philosophy of stewardship that emphasizes physical involvement in creating the impact of land use. The intimacy of being physically connected to the land, whether through the caress of hands on animals, the call of a raven while skidding logs, or the odor of freshly turned soil sliding across a plow face, cultivates a profound feeling of responsibility and draws the farmers closer to the Earth.

The farm's mission centers on growing healthy, vibrant food and forest products by following the principles of Holistic Management and using organic, biodynamic and regenerative practices. Their land is cared for using methods that support a landscape that is vibrant and regenerative, with livestock including poultry, hogs and cows raised on well-managed pasture, while flowers, herbs and vegetables are grown in permanent raised beds for minimal soil disturbance. As a small scale operation, they are able to maintain a more intimate connection to the land and animals, caring for the farm as a 'whole farm organism.'

Beyond food production, Earthwise Farm and Forest serves as an educational hub, offering workshops and services throughout the calendar year including on-farm classes, farm tours, work exchanges, and consulting services in areas such as grazing management, whole farm planning, and organic certification assistance. They use forest management principles that maintain ecological integrity and employ draft animals exclusively to harvest logs that are sold as custom-cut lumber and fuelwood. The farm embodies a philosophy of living sustainably and in deep relationship with the natural world, sharing their homestead farm design and practices to assist others in their quest for the same connection.