Slow Farm: Cultivating Biodiversity, Health, and Community in Ann Arbor
Nestled just three miles north of Ann Arbor, Slow Farm stands as a testament to sustainable, biodiverse, and community-oriented agriculture. Owned and operated by Kim Bayer, this USDA-certified organic U-pick and CSA farm invites the community to experience the benefits of regenerative farming firsthand. From the moment visitors step onto the farm, they are welcomed into a space where heirloom crops, ecological practices, and hands-on learning come together to foster a deeper connection with the land and our food.
At Slow Farm, biodiversity is at the heart of the operation. Kim and her team cultivate an extensive range of heirloom vegetables, flowers, and herbs, which not only provide nutrient-dense produce but also contribute to a resilient ecosystem. Through no-till farming and a strict avoidance of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, Slow Farm prioritizes soil health and sustainable crop production, creating a sanctuary for local wildlife and beneficial insects. This approach helps preserve the genetic diversity of food crops, ensuring that unique and endangered varieties continue to thrive.
Slow Farm’s commitment to health goes beyond the produce itself. By offering a U-pick experience and farmstand that accepts SNAP, EBT, and Double Up Food Bucks, Kim aims to make organic, local food accessible to more members of the community. The farmstand provides a welcoming space where visitors can immerse themselves in the sensory experience of harvesting their own food. Slow Farm also serves as a venue for education, helping visitors—both young and old—discover the connections between food, environmental health, and personal well-being.
Discovery and learning are woven into every aspect of the Slow Farm experience. Kim believes that a gentle exploration of our food system can inspire a lifelong commitment to sustainability and stewardship. Visitors to the farm are not only customers; they are encouraged to engage with the land, ask questions, and participate in agroecological practices. By offering heirloom varieties that are rare even at farmers markets, Slow Farm introduces visitors to foods that carry rich histories and cultural significance.
In addition to growing food, Slow Farm is cultivating a sense of belonging. Kim and her team view the farm as a gathering place for people of diverse backgrounds, fostering a community united by a shared appreciation for the environment and sustainable agriculture. Fair wages for workers, inclusivity for volunteers, and accessibility for visitors are essential to the farm’s mission. Slow Farm is a place to rediscover the joy of connecting with nature and community, reminding us all of the importance of ecological growing practices for a healthy and resilient future.
Slow Farm embodies values that go beyond farming—they represent a vision for a food system rooted in care, equity, and sustainability. Through her dedication and leadership, Kim Bayer is not only growing organic produce but also nurturing a community dedicated to the health of both people and planet.
