Bellair Farm

Located on historic Bellair Farm, just outside Charlottesville, Va., the farm spans 900 acres and has a rich history of community engagement. Known for its vibrant CSA program, the farm offers shareholders a diverse selection of 50 different types of vegetables and over an acre of Pick-Your-Own crops. The farm aims to reconnect families to the land, their farmer, and their food through hands-on experiences and community events.

The farm grows about 23 acres of vegetables without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, adhering to organic standards despite not being USDA certified. They use naturally derived fertilizers like manure, blood/bone meal, and cover crops to maintain soil health. Livestock, including Red Devon and Black Angus cattle, heritage breed hogs, and Golden Comet laying hens, are raised on pasture with non-GMO feeds. Rotational grazing systems are employed to enhance soil fertility and ecosystem health. The farm also uses biodegradable, plant-derived mulch instead of petroleum-based plastic.

The farm hosts family workshops on sustainable agriculture and CSA potlucks to foster community. They collaborate with like-minded partner farmers to offer a wide range of locally sourced food. The farm provides a positive work environment and fair compensation for employees, and welcomes groups and individuals to explore and learn about sustainable farming practices.