Pinestead Farm has been part of the working landscape in Franconia, NH since 1793. Our family farm sits in the shadow of the Kinsman Range of the White Mountains. The farm comprises woodlands and pastures, both of which contribute to the diversity of products raised on and produced by the farm.
Long before “eat local” – eating seasonal produce offered by nearby farms – began trending, sustainability was a way of life here at Pinestead Farm. From working the forest to producing maple syrup to raising beef, the farm has been managed to generate quality local products while preserving the land and its resources for future generations.
Meanwhile, interest in local organic produce grew and Pinestead Farm expanded to meet the demand. In 2006 we built a farm stand to begin selling Pinestead Farm produce on the farm in addition to local farmers markets. The following year we expanded into selling produce to local restaurants. In 2009 we built the first of two high tunnels to extend our limited growing season. As our business has grown we have added grass fed beef, pork, free range meat chickens and laying hens. We offer value added products such as maple syrup, artisan jellies and canned goods.
Pinestead Farm continues to grow as a commercial farming operation by means of season extension. In this growing climate, we are able to offer fresh produce for half a year, from May – October. We discovered that growing greens hydroponically would allow us to grow and sell our produce year round. So, in 2016, we set up a hydroponic farm created from a recycled, insulated shipping container. It is outdoor climate indifferent and produces nutritious, flavorful, quality leafy green vegetables on a weekly basis. Our customers are very excited that we will now be able to provide the quality produce they are accustomed to all year long.
