We’re excited to share the next installment in our “Interview with a Farmer Series”, where we talk to some of our local Indian River County farmers and producers to learn more about their operations, what it’s like to be a farmer, and what we can do as consumers to support local agriculture.
November is a time for giving thanks and, of course, for eating delicious food. That makes it the perfect time to recognize and celebrate all our local farmers, who work tirelessly to ensure that
we can put food on our tables. If you’ve ever wondered about the people behind your food, you’re in for a treat as we uncover the heart and soul of local agriculture in Indian River County. Join us for a new post each week throughout the month of November. In this post, we hear from Cat & Steve of Pueo Farms…
Can you tell me a little bit about your farm or operation?
We are a one acre, organically managed mixed vegetable farm supplying to our local markets here in Indian River County. We are going into our 5th season as producers.
How did you get started in farming?
We became interested in local agriculture traveling through the Hawaiian Islands working on small farms.
In your opinion, what is the best or most rewarding part of your job? What is the most challenging part of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of the farm business is supplying folks in our community with good, nutritious foods to nourish themselves and their families and the relationships we have with customers and other producers. The most challenging aspect that we endure are weather events that can temporarily crush a small farm and the workload that follows. A close second has been the rising cost of labor.
What is something easy that people can do to support local agriculture?
Visit your local farmers markets and local produce stands!
What does a typical ‘day in the life’ look like?
I (Steve) start the day at 4:45 AM and drive to Okeechobee for work. I leave work at 3 PM and drive over to our farm where I meet up with my wife, Cat, who is already there after finishing her work day. On even days, I work until after dark on the farm and get home at 7 PM to eat dinner and go to bed by 8 PM. On odd days, I leave at 5 PM to cook dinner and my wife stays to work on the farm until dark. Farming is hard work and long hours!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
You can find our seasonal produce at the Oceanside farmers market each Saturday between 8 AM and noon! You can also follow us on our Facebook page.
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