Pileated Farms
est. 2021

Pileated Farms is an 80 acre homestead which includes apple trees, grape vines, wild and cultivated berries, a creek, pond, old forests, pastures, swamps, and three vegetable fields.
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We are a no till farm using organic practices and focusing on working with the land. While not certified organic, we grow nutrient dense vegetables with no pesticides, herbicides, or pollutants. I always joke that the only thing the plants know is water, and even then we explore low water techniques. We practice regenerative agriculture and are working to close the farm’s loop, meaning we produce what we need (fertilizer, seeds, wood products, etc.) which is a long term project. Then again, isn’t being committed to the Earth a long term project anyway?

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Olivia is a born and raised Michigander who moved to the UP 11 years ago for college, knew she had found her place, and never left. She worked on a small farm in Eben for three years before jumping into owning and running Pileated Farms. She is a writer, maker, baker, and joy seeker who loves this lifestyle.

Although we have separated, the homestead and farm were founded with Brian Kakas, professor and ceramic artist, who is still an important part of the puzzle.

Olivia lives on the farm with 60 chickens, a small family herd of goats and two sheep, five dogs, three cats, and all the
more-than-human counterparts who share this land.

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Interested in coming to talk about plants, art, or writing?

Reach out!