Episode Details

The Soil Sisters get down to the roots of community agriculture with Brooke and Killian Keller who own and operate Better Days Gardens outside of Lockhart, Texas. We discuss their journey of transforming raw, unused land into a thriving regenerative market garden. Brooke and Killian share insights on their challenges with water issues and land preparation, as well as the farmer support and resources they are utilizing to sustain their farming operation. They emphasize the importance of soil health, community-supported agriculture (CSA), and cooperative farming. The episode highlights the dedication and resilience required to run a successful small-scale farm; it underscores the impact of local farms on community health and sustainable living. This Soil Sisters conversation originally aired on 107.9 KLKT Radio Lockhart in late October 2024. 

TIME STAMPS AND LINKS:

00:00 Soil Sisters Introduction

00:10 Meet the Farmers: Brooke and Killian Keller, Better Days Gardens

00:35 Expanding the Farm - From Austin to Lockhart, TX

01:20 Challenges and Infrastructure

05:10 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

09:12 Support and Resources for Farmers:

• Small Producers Initiative | TX Center for Local Food | https://www.southernfamilyfarmersconference.org/scholarships | USDA Farm Loans | National Young Farmers Coalition

18:00 Building a Farmer's Co-op

24:03 Human-Scale Farming

29:31 Challenges of Starting a Farm

30:54 Water Testing and Salty Water Issues

36:00 Fall Crops and Favorite Recipes

41:10 The Therapeutic Benefits of Farming

44:32 Where to Find Better Days Gardens: Area Markets and CSA Info

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