Beaver Island, MI, Charlevoix County
Farm Seeker/Farm Owner Partnership, Working arrangement with future partner
Jun 1, 2025
Acreage
- 40 Acres Available
- 10 Open Tillable Acres
Infrastructure and Equipment Available
Past/Current Land Usage
Vision for the Farm
Apple Blossom Farm envisions a revolutionary approach to sustainable living and regenerative agriculture on Beaver Island. As island residents currently rely heavily on imported food, we aim to provide a robust, locally-sourced alternative that not only reduces costly transportation but also mitigates the uncertainty of food availability due to weather-related events.
Spanning 40 acres, Apple Blossom Farm boasts a diverse landscape of orchards, pastures, hayfields, cultivated areas, and cedar woods and wetlands. While dormant for over a decade, the farm's rich history of cattle raising is evident in the large, still-standing barn - a testament to its potential for revitalization.
Our vision for Apple Blossom Farm: Picture a vibrant food forest teeming with life, hoop houses extending Northern Michigan's growing season, and an abundance of native plants and bushes. The property's sunny, dry cultivable land is ideal for a variety of crops including blueberries, junipers (perfect for artisanal gin production), fruit trees, and grapes.
Embracing sustainable energy, we're exploring the possibilities of harnessing solar and wind power on the property. Several small outbuildings stand ready to house small livestock such as chickens, ducks, and goats, further diversifying our agricultural offerings. Located just 4 miles from St. James, the island's sole town, Apple Blossom Farm is perfectly positioned to become a cornerstone of the local community and economy.
In an innovative partnership, the farm is currently leased by a non-profit for a summer artist residency, infusing creativity and culture into our agricultural endeavors. Additionally, Grand Valley State University is reviewing the property, promising expert insights to maximize its potential.
Past/Current Land Usage
Acreage description
Apple Blossom Farm, a historic farmstead featuring century-old orchards, hay fields, and open pasturelands, has remained vacant for nearly a decade. The well-preserved original farmhouse currently serves as the summer artist residency for the nonprofit organization SeedKeepers. In collaboration with the property owners, SeedKeepers aims to establish a vibrant, regenerative model farm that will serve dual purposes: providing locally-sourced food and goods for island residents while educating visitors about the critical importance of farmland preservation and regenerative agricultural practices that harmonize with native ecosystems.
The property encompasses 40 acres, strategically divided into distinct zones: 20 acres of cedar woods and wetlands, 10 acres of open pastureland, and approximately 10 acres dedicated to orchards and tillable cropland. Several barns and outbuildings complement the main structures. Situated on a paved road on Beaver Island, the farm is conveniently located just 4 miles from St. James, the island's sole town center.
Description of the property’s current condition, current use(s), and past use(s)
The farmhouse sits well back from the road. the future gardens will be between the road and the farm house. The back of the farmhouse will be used for pasture /hay field and orchards. The old cattle barn and remnants of the mormon barn sit to the back of the farmhouse.
Additional Information
The back 20 acres of the property will remain in conservation to be enjoyed for generations to come. The property is adjacent to a 265 acre preserve owned by Little Traverse Conservancy.
The prestigious Beaver Island Retreat is locatd just 1/4 mile down the road. The farm will serve as a great food resource for those staying at the glamping retreat.
The farm is also home to many Native American and Mormon archeological sites include the remnants of a 1850s hay barn.
We are looking for a farm manager to oversee the operations of this farm.
Soil Type(s)
Emmet-Leelanau Association
another map categorized it as Emmet-Eastlake
Transition Agreement
Farm Seeker/Farm Owner Partnership, Working arrangement with future partner
Sale Price or Estimated Market Value
310,000
Production Preferences
Preferred Farming Method
Organic Practices
