Brule, WI
The Project
Hoop Snake Farm will repair and improve an existing barn and construct a deer fence around a half-acre garden space. Improving the foundation and repairing the electrical system of the barn will allow the farm to keep more livestock over the winter. The deer fencing will protect annual and perennial fruit plants, which the farm will add this summer. This project will increase the production of pasture-raised pork, grass-fed lamb, organic grain-fed chicken, and naturally raised rabbit. It will also expand production to include strawberries.
Environmental Impact
All of Hoop Snake Farm’s livestock rotationally graze throughout the summer, fertilizing the soil behind them. As they rotate, the farm plants cover crops behind them, which increases organic matter in the soil, prevents runoff, and acts as a food supplement for their livestock and wildlife alike. It is regenerating the land used for fruit production by building the soil with natural mulches and compost, which, in turn, restores microbial activity, sequesters more carbon, prevents runoff, and increases the carrying capacity of the farm ecosystem.
“Our historic barn is the heart of the farm. Repairing and upgrading it will increase production, sales, and community involvement simultaneously. We’ve hosted workshops and our 2nd annual community potluck with live music in the barn. We want to continue hosting events to inspire and educate current and future farmers and customers, and build resilient food systems in our area.”
– Madeline Gould, owner
