Other experience/agricultural/business training - Independent study in rose cultivation, native and wild rose species, rose propagation, ethical wild harvesting, steam distillation, and small-scale business development for handcrafted rosewater hydrosol.
Do you have a business plan?
No - I have developed a clear business concept and long-term vision for Miller’s Rosewater Farm Project, but I have not yet completed a formal business plan. Developing a comprehensive business plan is one of my goals, and I would welcome guidance and mentorship to strengthen it as I establish the farm.
Do you have financial resources available to start your farm?
No - I currently have limited personal savings allocated toward starting my farm and am in the early stages of building my business. I am seeking land access, mentorship, and potential program support to help establish and scale the project in a sustainable way.
Do you have access to other financial resources (such as a financial partner, loan, etc.) to start your farm?'
No - Yes. I am looking to access financial resources to support the establishment of my small-scale farm, including potential grants, beginner farmer support programs, and possibly low-interest loans designed for new agricultural entrants. My focus is on starting small and building the farm gradually and sustainably as resources become available.
Project
Farm Name
Miller’s Rosewater Farm Project
Farm Project Description
I am developing a small-scale, regenerative farm focused on cultivating native and naturalized rose species for the production of handcrafted rosewater hydrosol.
My primary focus is on Nootka rose (Rosa nutkana), along with other resilient and fragrant species such as rugosa rose and prickly wild rose. These plants are well adapted to the local climate and support pollinators, biodiversity, and ecological health.
I have begun establishing plant stock and am building my knowledge in rose propagation, ethical wild harvesting, and small-batch steam distillation. My approach is grounded in learning from the land and developing a low-impact, thoughtful cultivation system over time.
I also bring over 30 years of professional experience as a makeup artist in the film industry (IATSE 891), with extensive hands-on experience in skincare, product application, and working with cosmetic materials. This background informs my interest in the quality, consistency, and careful small-batch production of rosewater hydrosol.
I am seeking access to land to establish a small, long-term planting of roses where I can begin modestly, observe site conditions, and grow gradually in partnership with the land.
This project combines ecological stewardship, craft, and small-scale botanical production. I am also seeking mentorship and collaboration opportunities as I develop both the farm and the business.
Preferred Arrangement
Lease -
Duration of the desired agreement
5–10 years (or longer if available)
Ideal date to obtain land by
As soon as a suitable land opportunity is found, ideally within 6–12 months
Land & Features Desired
Total Land Size (acres)
0.5 – 2 acres
Wooded Area (acres)
Yes - light to moderate, with sunlight access
Cultivable Area (acres)
1 acre
Possibility to expand area currently available (acres)
Yes - Yes, there is potential for expansion depending on the suitability of the land, soil conditions, and agreement with the landowner. I am interested in starting small and expanding gradually over time as the planting becomes established.
Zoning
Either
Preferred current state of the surface of the cultivable area
Land that may be lightly used, partially naturalized, or previously farmed, with potential for gradual preparation and planting.
Open to landowner residing on property
Yes - Yes, I am open to the landowner residing on the property. I value clear communication and collaborative land arrangements.
Need farm buildings
No
Need fenced land
Yes - Preferred but not required. Fenced land is preferred due to wildlife pressure (particularly deer), especially for establishing young rose plants. However, I am also open to working with land where fencing can be installed over time or where natural deterrents are used.
Need farm machinery and tools
No
Need established water source and infrastructure
Access to a reliable water source for small-scale irrigation (hose or drip irrigation) is sufficient. I do not require high-volume irrigation infrastructure, but consistent seasonal water access is important for establishing perennial rose plantings.
Need on-site housing
No
Production type
Flower - Native and naturalized roses for small-scale rosewater hydrosol production.
Type of agriculture
Organic -
Soil needs
Well-drained soil suitable for perennial shrubs, preferably loam or sandy-loam conditions. Flexible depending on site, as roses are adaptable when properly established.
Will acquire commercial insurance
Yes - Yes, I am willing to obtain commercial insurance and name the property owner as additionally insured if required
