Questions and Answers

Q: How hard is the work of running an organic orchard?

A: Yes, there will be hard work on the organic farm, but the work is healthy, wholesome and highly rewarding.

Q: Are there other organic farmers in the area to get support from?

A: Yes, there are a good amount of organic farmers who are helpful and supportive, along with the county extension service, farmer’s markets.

Q: How many people does it take to run and maintain an organic orchard like yours?

A: The Fruit Basket Orchard is a family farm and can be run and maintained by as little as a husband and wife. Even young children can help and it is a great environment for them. There are a good amount of people in the area for hire at very reasonable rates.

Q: Are you members of any support groups or organizations?

A: Yes, we are members of the WA State Certified Organic Farming Program, the WA State Farm Bureau. We are also members of WWOOF which stands for Willing Workers on Organic Farms. This is a wonderful organization. People wanting to experience organic farm life come to our farm and work for four hours per day for room and board.

Q: What is the income potential of your farm?

A: When it comes to making an income on a small farm like the Fruit Basket, the only limit is you. The culture of organic farming and the demand for organic products is exploding. Really it is what you choose to make of it. Example: You could customize the farm to what you feel good with and use it as a supplemental income or you can choose to expand by planting even a bigger variety of fruits, veggies, etc. You can produce your own jellies, jams, vinegars, homemade pies, dried fruits etc. The great thing about it is that you are your own boss and you can work it any which way you want.

Q: What are the sources of income for the orchard?

A: The orchard has a number of customers who come directly here, either to pick up pre-ordered fruits and veggies or just drop in. We also attend local Farmer’s Markets which are very popular in the area. There are grocery stores where we sell wholesale. Almost every supermarket and grocery store has some demand for good organic fruits, veggies and other products. As the old saying goes, “Find a need and fill it.” And right now, and on into the future, there is a great need for quality food that is produced on organic farms.

Q: What is unique about the area where the orchard is?

A: The area around Kettle Falls is picturesque and mountainous and the orchard is located within 15 minutes walking to the Lake Roosevelt and the Kettle River.

Q: Why are you selling?

A: I have been organic farming or gardening for most of my life. To me, organic farming is a way of life that gives us the opportunity to experience so many aspects of life that most people take for granted. The main reason we are selling is so that we can join some friends of ours on a much larger project, helping further educate people about the importance of sustainable living and the organic lifestyle. Living the organic way in harmony with the earth and one’s environment is richly rewarding and once having tasted it, one realizes suburban life or city life doesn’t even come close. So, you see we are not giving up our organic lifestyle. We are simply expanding our horizons.

All the best, James.