Nestled against a mountain backdrop in Spallumcheen BC, Fresh Valley Farms is a Certified Organic farm (NOOA Cert #04-346) made up of two quarter sections. Steve Meggait and Annelise Grube-Cavers raise certified organic beef, chicken, turkey, and heritage pork on pasture.
The farm uses all-natural, regenerative systems, with an emphasis on animal welfare. Steve and Annelise are committed to being responsible stewards of the land, fostering biodiversity and extensive habitats throughout the farm, and in conjunction with raising pasture-raised livestock. All of the feed brought on to the farm is certified organic, and much of it is locally grown. In 2020 Fresh Valley Farms became certified organic. While the land has always been managed without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, Annelise and Steve felt the need to fully align with their principles and certify the land and the livestock. They appreciate the importance of third-party audits to back up the transparency they have always communicated with their customers.
All of the animals at Fresh Valley Farms have ample access to pasture, and areas to forage, explore, and exercise their natural behaviours whether that be rooting, scratching, or moving together as a herd.
Farming with nature is an important part of how nutrient-dense, pasture-raised meats are produced on this farm while maintaining habitats for wild fauna, and improving plant diversity. This means frequently rotating animals through the pasture, preventing over-grazing, and ensuring that pigs and cattle have access to a range of space, including shady wooded areas in summer, and shelter against rain or snow in the cooler months.
With their two young children in tow, you will find Steve and Annelise working on various farm projects, always with a focus on sustainability and feeding the local community. Steve also volunteers on several agricultural committees, and Annelise enjoys doing food-systems research.
Starting in 2023 there will be short term accommodations available on the farm, which will include farm tours and optional 'Homesteader Groceries.' Inquire at events@freshvalleyfarms.ca to learn more!
To keep up with the day-to-day activities on the farm follow along on Instagram or Facebook. There are photos and stories of farming, along with culinary inspiration from the farmers' own kitchen adventures!
