| The Olympic Property Group recently acquired the historic Babcock Farm in Port Gamble, and plans to turn it into a showcase farm that both preserves history and provides locally grown produce. The 40-acre space will be turned into a working farm that would be leased to a farmer for growing organic produce and possibly operating a crop-sharing program known as CSA (community supported agriculture). The farm will be part of OPG’s master plan for Port Gamble, a town it owns and operates.
The farm was homesteaded in 1892 by Charlie Babcock. Originally at 40 acres, it reached more than 300 acres by the 1930s and produced milk, eggs poultry and produce for the town’s residents.
The farm will use sustainable design elements like a membrane bioreactor for waster water treatment. Other ideas include guest cabins, a winery, and educational opportunities.
“We are really excited about the farm,” said OPG President Jon Rose. “It’s going to be such a great addition to the town.”
Port Gamble’s master plan, which is still in the works, will include horticulture, and purchasing the farm is, “an outstanding opportunity to bring some innovation and teeth” to some of the proposed concepts, Rose said.
“This addition will allow us opportunities to create a supply of locally grown produce inside our master planned community; create a partnership for education with schools, nurseries, and others; preserve an historic farm that has always service the town (and) create a ‘centerpiece’ that is beautiful and earthy,” he added. |
