GIVING BACK
sustainability through experiential learning , one need only take an informed tour through its gorgeous grounds . “ We believe that people learn best through hands-on , tactile , real-world experience ,” says Shelburne Farms ’ Vice President , Megan Camp . “ Here at Shelburne Farms , we couldn ’ t have asked for a better classroom .”
The well-stocked Farm Store at the entrance of Shelburne Farms invites curious gastronomes to savor a taste of delicious Vermont produce and food-products , many of which are sustainably farmed and produced at Shelburne Farms ’ 7-acre Market Garden and Dairy . The produce is also used at the on-site Shelburne Farms Inn , which is located in a gorgeous , historic mansion on the shores of Lake Champlain . “ The
produce that we use in our culinary program from Shelburne Farms and the other local Vermont farms that we work with is absolutely amazing ,” says Shelburne Farms Inn ’ s Executive Chef , John Patterson . “ On my days off , I walk through the Market Garden here and my mind begins racing with new ideas for dishes . As someone who is passionate about food education , I think it ’ s wonderful that the people who come to stay and dine here get to visit where the produce is grown and the dairy products are made .”
True to Patterson ’ s word , visitors can visit the gardens and meet sheep and cows at the Farm Barn . “ We pride ourself on creating programming and experiences that bring our guests face-to-face with every aspect of the agricultural process and helps them understand where their food comes from ,” says Shelburne Farms ’ Chief Advancement Officer , Robin Turnau . To that end , Shelburne Farms ’ “ Sun to Cheese Tours ” allow guests to witness each stage of the cheesemaking process , from the cows grazing on the grass , to the final product itself . “ The Sun to Cheese Tours perfectly illustrate Shelburne Farms ’ commitment to offering visitors learning experiences that increase awareness of the big ideas of sustainability ,” notes Camp .
At the Market Garden , organic produce is grown in all seasons , which is sold at the farm store and served at the on-site restaurant at the Inn . “ Our market garden is organic ,” says Turnau . “ We sell many different kinds of produce , including kale , onions , tomatoes , squash , and lettuce , and we also grow flowers .” Many of the seedlings are planted in Shelburne Farms ’
Timeless Craftsmanship Employee Owned
Fine Homebuilding + Construction Management
RedHouseBuilding . com 802.655.0009
© Ryan Bent Photography
60 VERMONT MAGAZINE