This story was originally published in the 2022 Local Food Guide.
Located just west of Ann Arbor, Vestergaard Farms is dedicated to supporting a healthy community and engaging the next generation in agriculture. They prioritize animal welfare through sustainable pasture management and operate an on-farm market that is jam-packed with seasonal products from over 35 makers. Visitors are not only encouraged to shop the market, but also to wander the fields to get back in touch with the land.
Vestergaard Farms’ new partnership with Willow Run Acres connects visitors of all ages to agriculture through the Farm to Table School. This partnership includes three educational gardens at Vestergaard Farm and produce production space:
The ‘Watch Me Grow’ Sensory Garden
Food is fun and comes in many shapes, sizes, colors, and smells! This garden allows kids (aged 2+) and families to explore food through all their senses. Get involved with the sensory garden by signing up for workshops or summer camp at willowrunacres.com.
The Robotic Garden
Expanding in 2022, sponsored by the Rotary of Washtenaw County, this educational demonstration garden will show how a growing space can be watered, weeded, and maintained all from a laptop. Workshops offered.
The Underground Railroad Garden
This space explains the history of slavery and Black migration to the North through historically significant foods and seeds. The garden also celebrates the agricultural achievements and ingenuity of Black people. Heirloom seeds from this space are saved and distributed in the community.
Bring the whole family out to Vestergaard Farms to meet the animals, learn something new, and stock up on local food!
4408 S Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor
734-929-2875