Fourth-Generation Farm Is A Diverse Operation

Fourth-Generation Farm Is A Diverse Operation Carol Cross of Berlin, Md., is living out a family legacy as a fourth-generation farmer at Cross Farms. “I’ve traced the origin of our farm back to 1853 (so far),” says Cross. “At that time, the property was all orchards. When a blight came through, most of the trees were lost.” Her family shifted from fruit to raising cattle and hogs. “This work continued with my grandfather, John Shockley, and my dad, Jack Shockley.” Still, the farm remained a diverse operation. “The family vegetable garden was a must in those days,” Cross says. “Basically, my family was self-sufficient.”  As times changed and grain prices fell, Cross’s grandfather began growing string beans, tomatoes and watermelons for sale, along with corn and soybeans. “Some years were good; other years not so much,” Cross says.  Today, Cross and her family live in four houses on seven acres and farm three acres of the original homestead in Worcester County. “We work together—my mother Ruth, brother Chuck, husband Shawn, and I—to grow produce to meet our community’s needs.” The farm follows organic standards but isn’t certified, with crops grown both outdoors and in a greenhouse using hydroponics. “Our farm is a naturally grown produce operation,” she says. Like all farming ventures, the business faces its share of challenges. “We’re forever dealing with an unpredictable Mother Nature, rising input costs, and an overwhelming number of groundhogs,” says Cross. She’s quick to admit that the joys more than make up for it—community bonds, working in open space with nature and fresh air, and watching plants develop from seed to fruit. Cross grows dozens of vegetables and a number of fruits. One noteworthy crop is her amethyst string beans. Kids love the novelty of the purple-hued bean, which turns green when cooked. The produce is sold on the farm, at two local farmers markets, and in produce boxes. The farm accepts Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) payments for SNAP, WIC, SFMNP, FMNB, and SUN Bucks. Cross also collects food at the Historic Lewes farmers market and delivers it to five food pantries. Looking ahead, she’s eager to continue her family’s farming legacy. “In five years, I see Cross Farms providing farm-fresh vegetables to our community, still providing five food pantries with vegetables, and working with our school systems and senior centers.” Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Cross Farms, 9933 Pitts Rd., Berlin, Md. 21811 (ph 410-251-6824; crossfarms@mediacombb.net).

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