Spencer and Karen Fuentes | Adventure
/What's your connection to the land?
Spencer - I was born and raised on this farm. I'm second generation and grew up milking cows. I left for Alaska after I finished school and have been fishing in Bristol Bay for Sockeye every June and July since 1986.
Karen - I was raised on a dairy on Fir Island, in Skagit County. We planted our first blueberries in 2008 and had our first harvest in 2011. Now we sell U-pick, frozen and to local supply outlets and stores.
What actions have you taken as a steward that you're most proud of and/or that you feel have made the biggest difference?
I have been striving to farm the land in a sustainable manner, such as using cover crops on our fields. I'd like to think the land is as good if not better than when I started farming it in 2004. We have 10 1/2 acres of organic blueberries and will keep adding more until we're at capacity. In 2007 we planted Hazelnuts.
What’s your hope for the next 75 years?And/or what advice do you have for those next 75 years?
I hope the farm is still producing blueberries then. I think our children appreciate growing up on a farm much more than I did. When I was growing up everyone seemed to come from a farm. I'd like it to be farmed by someone who enjoys it, hopefully, our kids.
Anything else you want to share or feel is important?
Blueberries are good for you! Come pick some!
Who are you?
- Name: Spencer and Karen Fuentes, Hazel Blue Acres
- Where is home? Silvana
- Where are you from? Spencer-Silvana | Karen-Fir Islan