Practices

Beau Chemin Preservation Farm prioritizes heritage preservation through livestock breeding, organic farming, and sustainable practices. They raise rare Suffolk Punch horses and donkeys, emphasizing their role in agricultural history. The farm grows certified organic produce, including heirloom raspberries (red, purple, and black), grapes, and unusual melon varieties. They focus on heritage plant trials, such as beach plums, sea buckthorn, and medlars, while supporting wildlife through native plantings. Practices include U-pick harvesting, wool spinning, dyeing using farm-raised plants, and self-guided educational tours.

Offerings

The farm offers a unique mix of food, fiber, and history. Visitors can pick organic raspberries, grapes, and melons, with wholesale cantaloupe available to local stores. Specialty plants include 25+ organic pelargonium (geranium) varieties, dye plants for demonstrations, and trial crops like guomi berries and sand cherries. The on-site collection of 18th- and 19th-century spinning wheels, looms, and wool tools adds to their heritage focus. All plants, fruits, and vegetables are MOFGA-certified organic.

Visiting

The farm is open by appointment only. Visitors can explore self-guided tours of the gardens, berry orchards, and historic fiber tools. Educational opportunities include bird-watching walks, woods hikes, and farmer Q&A sessions. The farm emphasizes hands-on experiences, such as picking berries or examining heritage livestock like the calm Suffolk Punch horses.

How to Buy

For U-pick berries and melons, contact JoAnn at 207-691-8164 to confirm availability. Wholesale cantaloupe is sold to nearby organic stores. Fiber tools and plants are available seasonally. The farm encourages direct communication for visiting arrangements and product inquiries.