Natasha Zoe and her father, Stan Loder, both veterans with a passion for agriculture, manage JarHead Farm in Alderson, WV. Their farm serves as more than a local hub for fresh produce; it's a growing initiative focused on fostering community self-sufficiency and sustainable farming practices.
JarHead Farm is in the process of developing a u-pick orchard that emphasizes the cultivation of native and heirloom fruit varieties. This orchard is designed around the principles of co-planting and adheres to chemical-free growing methods, ensuring that visitors can enjoy picking their own fruit in an environmentally friendly setting.
Expanding their impact beyond the farm, Natasha and Stan operate a mobile market that travels across Summers, Greenbrier, Monroe, and Mercer counties. This mobile market tackles the challenge of rural food deserts by bringing locally sourced, nutritious food directly to underserved areas. The market features a delightful assortment of jams, jellies, apple butter, and fruit syrups, all made from produce sourced from JarHead Farm and 18 other small-scale fruit farmers throughout West Virginia. This initiative not only provides vital access to fresh, high-quality foods but also supports local agriculture and promotes community health.
