267. Brad Russell on Reviving Chestnut Farming in the US

What unique challenges and rewards come with chestnut farming?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Brad Russell of Chestnuts in the Ozarks in Omaha, Arkansas. Brad's lifelong respect for nature along with his dedication to sustainable agriculture has guided him and his wife, Sandy, to revive and sustain the long-forgotten legacy of chestnut farming in the United States. 

Tune in to hear all about Chestnuts in the Ozarks and the world of chestnut farming!

You'll hear:

• How Brad got started in chestnuts 0:49
• What varieties of chestnuts does Brad's farm work with 8:13
• About the care methods for chestnut trees 12:29
• How someone who wants to plant chestnut trees would need to plan 14:03
• About which insects people should watch out for 18:19
• About what bare roots trees typically cost 22:31
• How you can learn more about Chestnuts in the Ozarks 27:37

About the Guest:

In the picturesque countryside of the Ozarks in Omaha, Arkansas, Brad and Sandy Russell discovered their farm's purpose in the age-old tradition of chestnut farming where Chestnuts in the Ozarks was born. Brad grew up with a profound respect for nature and an unwavering passion for sustainable agriculture. Brad and Sandy's journey in the world of chestnut farming would become a testament to their love for each other, the earth, and their deep connection to their farm. It has become their determination to sustain an age-old legacy that has been long forgotten here in the United States. 

Resources: 

Website - https://www.chestnutsintheozarks.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chestnutsozark/
Facebook - Chestnuts in the Ozarks

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

 

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.