Our Agricultural Philosophy & Practices

In support of our educational mission, Shelburne Farms supports sustainable, community-based agriculture and food systems. Our food production practices work with natural systems and use natural inputs. We believe that healthy soil is the foundation for healthy plants, animals and people.

The Farm is committed to:

• diversified, economically and environmentally sustainable agricultural production
• balancing agricultural activities with wildlife habitat
• encouraging direct contact between farms and consumers
• growing crops, including livestock pasture and hay, using organic methods
• composting and recycling manure and other organic materials
• minimizing erosion and water pollution
• treating animals humanely. Our dairy is Humane Certified.
• promoting livestock health and milk quality through good nutrition and sanitation, and low-stress handling
• producing rbST/rbGH-free milk and raw milk farmhouse cheddar cheese
• integrating mixed land and facility uses, including agricultural, educational and cultural activities