Farms in Bend, OR
Local Farms in and Around Bend, Oregon
Bend is surrounded by a thriving network of farms offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, and other local goods. Here’s an expanded list of farms worth exploring:
1. Fields Farm
Website: fields.farm
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: Fields Farm has been a cornerstone of Bend’s local farming community for over 30 years, offering organic vegetables and a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture.
What to Buy: Seasonal produce like carrots, kale, squash, and tomatoes. They also offer a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.
Best Time to Visit: The farm stand is open from May through October, providing fresh vegetables throughout the growing season.
What People Say: Locals rave about the quality and freshness of the produce and appreciate the farm’s dedication to sustainable practices.
What Makes It Unique: Fields Farm operates on a small scale, emphasizing personal connections with the community and eco-friendly farming techniques.
2. Fibonacci Farm
Website: fibonaccifarm.org
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: Fibonacci Farm focuses on regenerative agriculture, producing heirloom vegetables, medicinal herbs, and vibrant cut flowers without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
What to Buy: Heirloom vegetables, colorful flowers, and unique herbs.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the growing season, with products available at local markets or for direct purchase.
What People Say: Customers appreciate the variety of heirloom crops and the farm's commitment to sustainability.
What Makes It Unique: Fibonacci Farm’s regenerative practices ensure healthy soil and nutrient-dense produce, making it a favorite among eco-conscious consumers.
3. Juniper Jungle Farm
Website: juniperjunglefarm.com
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: Specializing in heirloom and open-pollinated crops, Juniper Jungle Farm is dedicated to biodiversity and sustainability.
What to Buy: Seasonal vegetables, CSA shares, and fresh herbs.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall, when their CSA program and farm stand are operational.
What People Say: Customers love the farm’s mission to restore native habitats alongside agricultural production.
What Makes It Unique: This farm blends conservation efforts with sustainable agriculture, creating a rich and unique farming experience.
4. Rainshadow Organics
Website: rainshadoworganics.com
Location: Sisters, OR
Overview: Rainshadow Organics offers a "full-diet CSA," providing everything from vegetables to grains and meats, and hosts on-farm dinners and events.
What to Buy: Fresh vegetables, grains, meats, and flowers.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall.
What People Say: Visitors praise their community-focused approach and high-quality organic products.
What Makes It Unique: Their full-diet CSA program is perfect for families looking for a complete farm-fresh meal plan.
5. Volcano Veggies
Website: volcanoveggies.com
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: An aquaponic farm growing organic greens and herbs year-round with eco-friendly technology.
What to Buy: Organic lettuce, kale, basil, and microgreens.
Best Time to Visit: Open year-round.
What People Say: Customers are impressed with the farm’s innovative approach and consistent product quality.
What Makes It Unique: The aquaponic system recycles water and nutrients, making it an environmentally friendly choice for fresh produce.
6. Windflower Farm
Website: windflowerfarmbend.com
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: Windflower Farm is known for its certified Animal Welfare Approved laying flock and organic vegetables.
What to Buy: Seasonal produce, eggs, and fresh flowers.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall.
What People Say: Visitors admire the farm’s ethical animal care and vibrant produce offerings.
What Makes It Unique: Their commitment to animal welfare and high-quality organic standards set them apart.
7. Pine Mountain Buffalo Ranch
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: A family-owned ranch specializing in grass-fed buffalo, yak, elk, and pasture-raised eggs.
What to Buy: Premium meats and fresh eggs.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
What People Say: Customers appreciate the ranch’s dedication to ethical and sustainable animal farming.
What Makes It Unique: The focus on diverse and rare meat options provides a unique culinary experience.
8. Wild Grown Farm
Location: Redmond, OR
Overview: A small farm offering heirloom plant starts and pasture-raised poultry.
What to Buy: Fresh eggs, chickens, ducks, and turkeys.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall.
What People Say: Visitors love the variety of poultry and the vibrant plant starts available for gardeners.
What Makes It Unique: Their focus on heirloom and heritage varieties makes them a standout option for unique produce.
9. The Broken Plow Microfarm
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: A microfarm providing seasonal organic vegetables and herbs.
What to Buy: Fresh, organic vegetables and herbs.
Best Time to Visit: May through October.
What People Say: Customers value the farm’s small-scale approach and personal service.
What Makes It Unique: The microfarm format ensures freshness and attention to detail in every product.
10. Zajac Farms
Location: Bend, OR
Overview: A small, organic farm offering diverse vegetables and regenerative farming practices.
What to Buy: Seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the growing season.
What People Say: Locals appreciate the rich flavors and variety of produce available.
What Makes It Unique: Zajac Farms' regenerative practices focus on soil health and environmental sustainability.
The Role of Farmers’ Markets in Bend
Farmers’ markets in Bend are hubs of activity where local farms come together to sell their goods. These markets not only provide access to farm-fresh produce and products but also foster a sense of community. Popular markets like the Bend Farmers Market and Northwest Crossing Farmers Market feature everything from vegetables and herbs to baked goods and handmade crafts. Visiting these markets is a great way to sample offerings from multiple farms while supporting local businesses.
Farm Stands and U-Pick Opportunities
For those who prefer a more direct connection to their food, many farms offer on-site farm stands or U-pick options. Whether it’s gathering your own berries, selecting the freshest greens, or picking up a dozen pasture-raised eggs, these experiences make buying from local farms both fun and rewarding. Fields Farm and Wild Grown Farm are excellent places to explore for this type of experience.
Farm-Fresh Meal Ideas
One of the joys of buying from local farms is crafting meals with fresh, seasonal ingredients. From summer salads featuring heirloom tomatoes to roasted root vegetables in winter, Bend’s farms provide everything you need for farm-to-table dining. Pair pasture-raised meats or eggs with seasonal vegetables for a nourishing, locally sourced meal.
The Future of Farming in Bend
As interest in local and sustainable food grows, Bend’s farming community continues to innovate. Farms like Volcano Veggies are leading the way with technologies like aquaponics, while others focus on regenerative practices to restore soil health and biodiversity. Supporting these forward-thinking farms ensures the longevity of local agriculture and helps the community thrive in harmony with the environment.
Supporting Sustainable Agriculture in Bend
Bend’s local farms play a critical role in promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. By using methods like regenerative farming, organic practices, and aquaponics, these farms minimize their ecological footprint while producing high-quality products. Choosing to support these farms not only provides fresh and healthy food but also helps protect the region’s natural beauty and resources.
Farm Tours and Educational Opportunities
Many farms near Bend offer tours and educational experiences for families, schools, and curious individuals. These tours often include hands-on activities like planting, harvesting, or learning about sustainable farming techniques. Farms such as Rainshadow Organics and Juniper Jungle Farm frequently host workshops and events, making it easy for the community to connect with local agriculture and gain a deeper understanding of where their food comes from.
Connecting Bend’s Local Farms to Your Food Experience
Bend’s vibrant farming community enhances every aspect of the local food scene, from restaurants to meal delivery services. Here’s how these farms directly contribute to some of Bend’s top food experiences and services:
Local Restaurants: Many of Bend’s restaurants proudly source ingredients from local farms. Whether it’s fresh greens from Fields Farm or pasture-raised meats from Pine Mountain Buffalo Ranch, these partnerships ensure top-quality dishes that highlight the region’s flavors.
Food Trucks: Bend’s innovative food trucks also benefit from local farms. Seasonal produce, free-range eggs, and artisanal meats from farms like Wild Grown Farm often make their way into creative and delicious menus.
Fresh Produce for Home Cooks: If you’re preparing meals at home, check out this guide on where to buy fruit and vegetables in Bend. Farms like Fibonacci Farm and Rainshadow Organics make it easy to access high-quality, locally grown produce.
Farm-Inspired Food Tours: Discover how local agriculture inspires culinary creativity by joining one of Bend’s food tours or tastings. These tours often highlight farm-to-table restaurants and showcase the freshest ingredients from nearby farms.
Meal Delivery Services: For those who prefer convenience, Bend’s meal delivery services often incorporate ingredients from local farms. Whether it’s farm-fresh eggs or seasonal vegetables, you can enjoy the flavors of Bend without leaving your home.
Private Chefs: Hosting a special event or dinner? Bend’s private and personal chefs frequently use locally sourced ingredients to craft personalized menus that showcase the region’s best produce and meats.
Farm-Fresh Eggs: Looking for the best eggs in town? Farms like Windflower Farm and Juniper Jungle Farm are featured in this guide on where to buy farm-fresh eggs, offering options that are fresh, ethical, and delicious.
Local Meats: Bend is known for its exceptional quality meats, and this guide to where to get the best meat in Bend highlights ranches like Pine Mountain Buffalo Ranch, where you can find grass-fed beef, bison, and more.
Bend’s farms are integral to its thriving food culture, providing fresh, high-quality ingredients that enhance every meal, whether it’s prepared at home, enjoyed at a restaurant, or experienced through a food tour. By supporting these local farms, you’re not only enjoying delicious, healthy food but also contributing to the sustainability and vitality of the Bend community.
FAQs About Local Farms in and Around Bend
Can you visit the farms directly?
Yes, many farms like Fields Farm, Fibonacci Farm, and Rainshadow Organics have on-site farm stands or offer scheduled visits during the growing season. It’s always a good idea to check their websites or call ahead for details.
What are the best months to buy fresh produce in Bend?
The best time to purchase fresh produce is late spring through early fall when most farms have their harvest season. Some farms, like Volcano Veggies, grow year-round, making them a great option during winter months.
Are there organic farms near Bend?
Absolutely! Many farms, including Fibonacci Farm, Rainshadow Organics, and Windflower Farm, focus on organic or regenerative farming practices.
Do these farms sell at farmers' markets?
Yes, several local farms participate in farmers’ markets like the Bend Farmers Market and the Northwest Crossing Farmers Market. These events are a fantastic way to sample and purchase fresh, local products.
Can you buy directly from the farms?
Yes, most farms offer direct sales through farm stands, CSAs (Community-Supported Agriculture), or online orders. Direct buying ensures the freshest products and supports local agriculture.
What types of farms are in Bend?
Bend has a variety of farms, including those specializing in vegetables, fruits, herbs, dairy, meat, eggs, and even aquaponic greens. From pasture-raised meats at Pine Mountain Buffalo Ranch to heirloom veggies at Juniper Jungle Farm, there’s something for everyone.
Is buying from local farms cheaper than grocery stores?
It depends. While specialty or organic items may cost more than conventional store-bought goods, the quality and freshness often justify the price. Bulk purchases through CSAs or seasonal deals can also provide significant savings.
What are the best farms near Bend?
Some of the most popular farms include Fields Farm for vegetables, Rainshadow Organics for a full-diet CSA, and Wild Grown Farm for eggs and poultry. Each farm offers something unique, so it depends on what you’re looking for.
What is the best season to visit local farms?
Late spring through early fall is ideal for visiting farms, as this is when most produce is harvested and farm stands are open. Some farms, like Volcano Veggies, operate year-round.
Do Bend farms offer dairy products?
Yes, while less common than produce farms, there are a few local dairies providing products like artisan cheeses and fresh milk. Check the Bend Farmers Market or specialty stores for these items.
Can I pick my own produce at these farms?
Some farms, like those offering U-pick services, allow visitors to harvest their own fruits or vegetables. Always check the farm’s policies and seasonal availability before visiting.
Are there CSA programs in Bend?
Yes, many farms, including Fields Farm and Rainshadow Organics, offer CSA memberships where you can receive fresh, seasonal produce weekly or bi-weekly.
What makes Bend farms unique?
Bend farms often incorporate sustainable practices like regenerative farming, aquaponics, and organic methods. The high-desert climate also contributes to the unique flavors and qualities of the produce.
What kinds of products do local farms offer besides produce?
In addition to fruits and vegetables, many farms provide pasture-raised meats, eggs, honey, herbs, flowers, and even grains. Some farms also sell value-added products like jams, pickles, and baked goods.
Do local farms host events?
Yes, several farms, like Rainshadow Organics, host events such as farm-to-table dinners, workshops, and seasonal festivals, offering a unique way to experience local agriculture.
Are there farms near Bend specializing in aquaponics or hydroponics?
Yes, Volcano Veggies is a great example of a local farm using aquaponic systems to grow organic greens and herbs sustainably year-round.
Can I buy fresh fruit from farms in Bend?
While Bend’s climate isn’t ideal for many fruits, some farms grow berries, apples, and other hardy varieties. Nearby regions may have additional options for those seeking a wider range of fruit.
What are the most common products grown on Bend farms?
Bend farms are known for hearty vegetables like kale, carrots, and squash, as well as pasture-raised meats, eggs, and herbs. Specialty items like flowers and aquaponic greens are also popular.
How do I find out about seasonal availability at local farms?
Most farms provide seasonal updates on their websites or social media. Farmers’ markets are another excellent resource to learn about what’s currently in season.
Why should I buy from local farms?
Buying locally supports the regional economy, reduces environmental impact, and provides fresher, higher-quality products. It also helps sustain farming traditions and fosters community connections.