Four local producers received micro-loans totaling $13,900 from the Chequamegon Food Co-op to help with farm projects. Micro-loan recipients for the Spring 2023 loan cycle are as follows:
- Beacan Hollow is owned by Abi Fergus, who is looking to add beekeeping to their land. Beacan is a Scots-Gaelic word that means both bee and mushroom. Abi is receiving a loan to buy fencing and supplies for the apiary.
- Ben Cogger, owner of Observation Hill Farm will be purchasing materials to build a greenhouse on the farm to extend their growing season and increase their production. They are expanding and diversifying their vegetable production to provide for Bayfield Foods Cooperative.
- Mary Pearson, owner of Silver Sage Farm and Flowers is receiving a micro-loan to hire additional subcontractors allowing for increased production. Silver Sage Farm and Flowers supplies the co-op with plants in the spring!
- Yoman Farm is owned by John Adams, who uses organic soil amendments and organic growing techniques. He is receiving a micro-loan to purchase a greenhouse. He plans to expand pepper, lettuce, and tomato production.