Petoskey, MI
The Organic Farm Owners
Anne and Brian Bates bring an entrepreneurial spirit to an old-world industry
Pulling into Anne and Brian Bates’ farm has a similar feel to pulling into a modern winery. A nice wooden sign that leads to a small winding road toward a good-sized dirt parking area. After a few steps, you’re among a set of greenhouses, lined up with ample space between them. People are working, and it’s hard to distinguish between the owners and the workers who’ve asked to work there — the farm has never posted a job opening, but people come from all over to be part of what’s growing.
I meet Brian and his wife, Anne, with their months-old baby swaddled to her chest. They are all smiles and energy, and the conversation turns immediately to the farm-to-table dinner they are preparing to serve inside one of the greenhouses. I shoot while Brian moves from one thing to another. Days at the farm have different needs. Certain days are for harvesting. Certain days at the market. Today is Tuesday — the day for chores.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
