PEI Organic Farmers
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Hallaig Organics
“I fell into it, really,” reflects Melissa Mullen, surveying the land
that has been in her husband’s (Rob MacLean) family for nearly 150
years. “We started off with 100 acres of conventional blueberries,”
begins Melissa, “then we started converting portions to organic to
reduce pesticide use, particularly around water and near the woods.”
Concerned first and foremost about the effects of pesticides on her
family, her neighbours, and her clients, Melissa and Rob were also
concerned about the effects these chemicals could have on the wildlife
that also have a home on their land. Winding through the gentle PEI
hills that roll across Hallaig Organics, it’s common to encounter
beavers, ducks, and visiting Canada geese along the shores of hidden
streams.
Living in quiet Lewes, Prince Edward Island, Hallaig Organics now
boasts 17 acres of certified organic crops, sold directly on the farm.
Focusing primarily on low-bush blueberries, some of which were planted
nearly 45 years ago, Melissa and Rob also produce maple syrup in their
FSC certified forest, which is sold at the Sunshine Farm-stand at the
Charlottetown Farmers Market.
When asked why she farms, Melissa looks to her family. “It’s a flexible
and healthy way to raise a family – our daughters get to be part of
what we do.” Before delving into stories and memories of the family’s
favourite swimming and rafting spots, Melissa pauses and returns to the
topic of family. For Mullen and MacLean, from the hand-harvesting to
the sale, and the regular interaction with customers, farming has
always been a family activity.
When discussing the future of Hallaig Organics, Melissa is quick to
remark that she has plenty to live up to. “The history of this land has
plenty of great stories,” says Melissa. Pointing to a barn, Melissa
tells of how it was built using funds earned working on the CN rail
lines. “Trees from that stand were felled to build masts for British
Navy ships during the Napoleonic Wars,” she says. In some small way,
Melissa wants her farming endeavours to be remembered as part of this
greater history. “We love this land and our connection with nature;”
says Melissa, “we want our children to love this land and know that
their parents worked to be good stewards.”
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