Avalon Farm, in the Sproat Lake area of Vancouver Island, is surrounded by beautiful forest, nestled in the last remaining meadows of historic Stirling Farm, started in the 1800’s. The soil, mainly ancient, drained peat bog, is perfect for Blueberries – and since they were first planted 2006, the Certified Organic berries have thrived in their pristine environment. This is a turn-key opportunity, with mentorship, for someone who has serious interest in blueberry farming!
Land Details
Participant in BC Land Matching Program
Yes - This land opportunity is participating in the BC Land Matching Program. Reach out to kiyomi@youngagrarians.org to start a conversation.
Total land size in acres
22 acres
Wooded Area
Yes - 8 acres
Cultivable Area
1+ acre of blueberries
Expansion potential (acres)
Yes - 10 acres
Zoning
Non-ALR
Current use
Orchard/Fruit - blueberries
Current practices
Certified Organic -
State of the surface of the cultivable area
Established blueberry orchard with mature plants (since 2006 and 2009).
Description and historical use of land available for farming
Avalon Farm was established in 2006 with the planting of the first field of blueberries, followed by the second field of blueberries planted in 2009. Berries are CERTIFIED ORGANIC - mainly Reka Blueberries, and are usually ripe from early July to mid-August each year. All of the infrastructure for Blueberries is in place - industrial coolers, freezers, packing shed, bird netting, sprayers, small tractors, wagons for hauling berries, etc. The farm has a loyal customer list - berries are fully sold out each season!
Road Access
Yes
Electricity
Yes
Cell Service
Yes
Long-term goal or vision for land
The owners of Avalon Farm love this land and what it produces. They would like to stay in their home on the farm, but are looking to lease out the Blueberry fields, as they try to step back and slow down a bit.
Known environmental hazards (wildfire area, flooding, etc.)
Yes - Can flood occasionally in winter, but drains quickly.
Current residents living on property
Yes - Owner
Availability of farm buildings
Yes - Barn and storage sheds
Land is fenced
Yes - Partially fenced, currently horses are fenced in
Availability of farm machinery and tools
Yes - Depending on need
Water source
Irrigation system -
Water rights to these sources
Yes
On-site housing
Yes - Bring your own accomodation (RV, tiny home)
Restricted access of visitors
Yes
Types of production you are open to
Vegetable -
Orchard/Fruit - additional berries could be planted, as demand for organic is strong
Practices preferred
Certified Organic -
Organic -
Agronomic potential
Good
Soil details
Thick topsoil - 16 acres mainly peat based soils, as well as mixed soils on higher elevation
Slope orientation and degree of slope (specify) - flat, to slightly elevated at house and barns
General fertility (nutrients) - over 60% organic matter in soil
Preferred arrangement
Lease -
MOU -
Business Partnership -
Would you be willing to mentor or advise the entering farmer(s)?
Yes - Yes, that would be essential, as this is an existing business that would need a smooth transition.
Do you require references from the farmer(s)?
Yes
Agreement duration
would depend on suitability and relationship that is developed, but long term is preferred.
