Now that we’re well into the fall season, what’s a better way to enjoy what’s left of it than with a trip to a local farm. The Eugene and Springfield area are home to many different farms. Buying produce and homemade goods from these farms is a great way to support the local community. If you are curious about visiting a farm in the area, here are a few you should check out.
Johnson Farms is located on Armitage Rd in Eugene. Not only is this farm family-owned, but it is also one of oldest local farms in the Lane County area. The farm grows many different types of fruits and vegetables depending on the season. If you are interested in trying some of their produce, you can either stop by and purchase at the stand, or you can participate in the U-pick experience. For the month of November, their featured crops include; sweet corn, tomatoes, herbs, peppers and apples. For more information on their harvest calendar, you can visit jhonsonfarmseugen.com.
Another great place to check out is River Bend Farm and Pleasant Hill Orchard, located on Fremont Ave in Eugene. The farm is set on 25 acres of land, with a variety of lush fruit trees. The farm also has a store where you can buy fresh produce and homemade goods. For the fall season, the main crops that are in season include; apples, pears, and squash. The farm is temporarily closed, although fruits will be sold at the farmers market on saturdays.
One other notable farm is Thistledown Farm, Located on River Rd in Junction City. When the family owned farm was just starting out, it was very small. Now the farm has expanded over 800 acres. The farm grows a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, along with seasonal flowers. Currently, the in season crops include apples, kale, squash, and sweet potatoes.
The farm also has a nursery, with lots of different plants and flowers for gardens. The fourth and final farm is Charles Little & Company, Located on Seavey Loop Rd in Eugene. The 35 acre farm is covered in many different crops including, herbs, grain, and flowers. Their main claim to fame is their wide variety of unique and beautiful flowers. They have a farm stand and U-pick that is available to the public, open Thursday-Sunday from 9am-5pm. They also teach classes and hold private events at their farm, for more information visit Charleslittleandcompany.com.
I hope you enjoyed these four local farms! Make sure to plant out a visit before the end of the fall season, and take advantage of these fresh fruits, veggies, and flowers.