Where are Lacy and Jhessye visiting this week?
Saxmore Farms in Dorchester County grows primarily collards, rutabagas, kale, cabbage, peanuts, sweetpotatoes, okra, and corn. It is owned and operated by Peter Smith Sr. and Jr., with 3 generations now involved with the farm operation. Peter Smith Sr. has been farming this land since the 1950s, and when Peter Jr. learned about Climate-Smart Grown in SC, he was interested in participating and learning more about conservation practices for their farm alongside his father. As part of the program, they work together to experiment with cover crops (pictured below), reduced tillage methods, and mulch. Peter Smith Sr. has a wealth of farming knowledge and experience spanning from working on this land for the previous owner, to owning it and producing a variety of quality crops. He diligently shares his passion for agriculture with his family and local community.
Peter Jr. helped to establish Dorchester Farmer’s Market, one of two farmer’s markets in the county, and he also helps with the Dorchester Back to School Bash. Additionally, Saxmore Farms partners with the Department of Aging, contributing its produce to the department’s Meals on Wheels program, which helps senior citizens access healthy food. They also invite senior citizens 2-3 times per year to cook for them and provide produce to show appreciation for the elders in the community. Learn more about Saxmore Farms on their website.
This month’s spotlight is from Lacy Barnette and Jhessye Moore-Thomas, Extension Horticulture Associates.
The South Carolina Grower 