SPRINGVALE – Whether you’re interested in blueberries or apples, fresh vegetables, or locally grown mushrooms, or merely taking a leisurely walk and seeing some sights on the way, you can do all those things on Sunday at the annual Springvale Farm Walk.
The event coincides with the state’s annual Open Farm Day, a day where Mainers and their families can take an adventure on a farm and learn about the business of agriculture.
Springvale Farm Walk is a free, four-mile, self-guided walk that connects to nine farms, said Lee Burnett of the Sanford Trails Committee, which organizes the event, along with the participating farms. Featured farms raise sheep, Christmas trees, mushrooms, vegetables, berries, and apples. They also make cheese, hard cider, dairy and maple syrup, he said.
Three Rivers Land Trust serves a hearty breakfast from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at McDougal Orchards. Burnett said. Noon Family Sheep Farm serves lamb barbecue. Each farm along the way serves a complimentary refreshing drink, and a few of the farms also sell produce and prepared food.
The path is well-marked and generally follows gentle terrain. Walkers may start and end anywhere, and a shuttle service is available.
“There are a few rough spots, but the path is certainly walkable by children,” said Burnett. “Sturdy shoes are recommended. We welcome dogs on leashes and owners who pick up after them.”
The farm walk is 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Participating farms include: Blueberry Bend, with high bush blueberries; Carpenter Christmas Tree Farm; Ferment Farm with fresh cider and produce; McDougal Orchards, with apples, raspberries and more; Mousam Valley Mushrooms; Noon Family Sheep Farm; Our Farm, with seasonal produce; Rivard Farm, with high bush blueberries and raspberries and seasonal produce; and Twin Maples Farm, with organic garlic and winter squash. Also participating this year is the Mousam Way Land Trust, featuring the 24-raised bed Sanford Community Garden, with a Kids Can Grow 4-H display, games, drinks and ice cream.
The event is held rain or shine.
Parking and a shuttle service are available. For more information, visit Sanford Trails Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/sanfordtrails/
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