Rock Hill Orchard

John and Mary Fendrick, originally from urban backgrounds, transitioned to farming by first breeding Guernsey cows on their Germantown farm. Their sons showcased these cows at various dairy shows. In 2010, they purchased Rock Hill Orchard to expand their operations, including a viable orchard, pick-your-own business, and on-farm market. Mary earned a cheesemaking certificate and attended 'Ice Cream College' at Penn State. By 2012, they built a dairy and creamery, establishing the first all-pasture robotic milking dairy in North America. They have since planted thousands of new trees and berry bushes, installed high tunnels, and invested in new infrastructure. The farm was featured on the Maryland Farm & Harvest program in 2013, and both John and Mary are active in the local farming community.

The farm intensively grazes its herd of Guernsey cows and employs robotic milking technology. They focus on producing clean, healthy, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. The Fendricks plan their farming tasks meticulously each winter to ensure nothing is missed, despite the challenges posed by nature. Their animals are raised humanely in an environmentally sound manner, and they strive to educate consumers about the health benefits of grass-fed milk products.

The farm offers pick-your-own opportunities for flowers, herbs, vegetables, blackberries, raspberries, apples, and pumpkins. They have a farm market that operates with several modifications to ensure safety, including outdoor produce selection and order pickups. Ice cream made from their A2A2 Guernsey milk is available at the market. The Fendricks are involved in various agricultural committees and organizations, contributing to the local farming community. Pets are not permitted outside of vehicles on the farm, but service animals are welcome.