Family transforms Helene-ravaged property into community farm
By Gracie Palmer
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BLACK MOUNTAIN, North Carolina (WLOS) — A local family is transforming a Helene-ravaged property along the Swannanoa River into a thriving farm, creating a space focused on agriculture, community, and recovery.
Mary Bulan and her family purchased the six-acre property just a few months ago.
Before Helene, the land held a small garden and two homes.
“And then when the storm hit, and the houses were destroyed, we kept farming, even knowing nothing about what the future of the property would be,” Bulan said.
Bulan said the family initially leased a small portion of the property to grow flowers. After Helene, the previous owner was no longer able to maintain the land.
“We probably had 10 feet of water,” Bulan said.
After purchasing the property, Bulan and her partner established Little Farm.
“We grow mostly fresh-cut flowers. We sell arranged bouquets from our farm stand in Black Mountain. And we also have a ‘you pick’,” Bulan said.
The farm grows herbs, flowers, and produce, much of which is sold at their farm stand.
“We have been selling out of our driveway since 2019. And then it became clear that we needed more space to grow or wanted more,” Bulan said.
The remaining crops are donated to hunger-relief organizations, including Bounty & Soul and Equal Plates.
Along with the farm, the property includes campsites along the river that are available for visitors to book.
“We want it to remain a farm that’s producing food and flowers and beauty and joy for our neighbors, for folks who come to visit and want to enjoy a beautiful place,” Bulan said.
Looking ahead, Bulan hopes to continue expanding the farm while creating opportunities for others to share and benefit from the space.
For more information on Little Farm, visit: littlefarm-nc.com
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