This week’s farm trip took us to Paisley Ontario where we met Ashley Burke at her farm Alverstoke. Ashley raises sheep, chickens and Berkshire pigs.

Ashley took us on a tour and I must say this was one of the most beautiful barns we have had the pleasure to be in. Ashley’s holistically natural approach to raising her animals is wonderful to say the least. From the food and nutrients they eat to the pastures and barn they live in these animals live a beautiful and natural life.

It was quite a chilly wet day so all the lambs were inside and baaaing away to say hi when we entered. We went over to the side where her beautiful Berkshire pigs were – if you have not seen a Berkshire before – they are the big black pigs with the 6 points of white on them (legs/feet, face and tail). We met Dobby – her boar and her 3 sows. They were a little curious to who the strangers were but mainly I think were happy to be relaxing inside on a chilly wet day.

After the barn tour we went inside and chatted about many of the great events that Ashley is involved in on and off her farm. She has even hosted chefs in training at her farm which has made her a great learner and educator of Ontario farming. Very cool.

Another great day with a great woman at her beautiful farm!

B.

PS – watch out – those Patricia lambs are friendly but can be nippy too :-).