McKerracher Family Farm

Kerry and his partner immigrated from Northern Alberta, Canada, to the United States in 1985, eventually settling in North Idaho in 1995. They homesteaded 5 acres, raised 10 children, and developed their land. In 2015, they began dreaming of starting a farm on 10 acres across the road, which led to the founding of McKerracher Family Farm in 2016. They initially planted blueberries and vegetables, selling at local farmers markets and to high-end Spokane restaurants. By 2018, they sold their original 5 acres, moved to the farm full-time, and began building infrastructure. In 2020, they hired their first employee and started their first CSA programs.

The farm employs no-till and regenerative farming practices, focusing on stewarding the soil and fostering community connections. Pastured poultry are moved daily to fresh pasture, allowing them to forage for bugs and plants in open-air structures. The chickens are fed supplementary local grains that are non-GMO, without corn or soy. Eggs come from pasture-raised, unvaccinated hens that are never fed corn, soy, medicated feed, or antibiotics. The farm also uses hoop houses and a processing center to support their diverse range of crops, including vegetables, small fruits, herbs, and cut flowers.

The farm offers a variety of community engagement opportunities, including a CSA program, Farm Fresh Club, and hanging basket parties. They also provide internships and consulting services for budding gardeners and homesteaders. Visitors can purchase plants from the farm nursery or shop at local farmers markets in Athol and Hayden. The farm emphasizes the importance of reconnecting people to their food and their farmer, promoting healthy eating and local agriculture.