April Joy Farm

Founded in 2006 by April Jones Thatcher, April Joy Farm began as a response to the threat of urban sprawl on Ridgefield's fertile land. The farm quickly became known for its commitment to organic practices and was the first heritage pork operation in the northwest to achieve Animal Welfare Approved certification. April, with her background in engineering and an M.B.A., built the farm from scratch, dedicating herself to the land and community. Her partner, Brad Thatcher, joined in 2012, bringing his expertise in operations and logistics to the farm.

April Joy Farm employs a systems-based approach inspired by Donella Meadows, focusing on integrated diversity. The farm's 24 acres include a mix of annual and perennial crops, canyon, creek, and cropland, all certified organic by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. The farm emphasizes soil health, water filtration, native habitat restoration, and community partnerships. Livestock, including a flock of laying hens and donkeys, are raised with a focus on welfare and respect, contributing to the farm's ecological balance.

April Joy Farm is a direct market family farm that relies entirely on its agricultural operations for livelihood, with no off-farm income. The farm's name is a tribute to the hopeful months of spring and its founder, April Jones Thatcher. The farm's logo features Rosie the pig, the matriarch of their heritage pork operation, who lived to the age of 13. April Joy Farm is also involved in community education, with April serving on the board of the Organic Farming Research Foundation and receiving the National Organic Farmer of the Year leadership award from the Organic Trade Association.