Kansans have raised turkeys for a long time, says the K-State Research & Extension News. If you act now, you can get one of those birds for your Thanksgiving feast. Among producers within shouting distance of Lawrence are:
- Clark Family Farm. They were taking orders on Saturday at the Lawrence Farmers Market for fresh pastured turkeys, which you can pick up at the Pendletons on Saturday before Thanksgiving, or they will deliver. Call to see if they have more: Fred & Margaret Clark, and Lydia & Eddie Clark, (785) 842-0385.
- Homespun Hill Farm. Their web site says they have pastured turkeys. Debbie Yarnell, (785) 594-7111.
- Brantley Family Farm. Their listing on Localharvest.org says they are taking orders for pastured turkeys. Kelly Brantley, (913)583-9950.
- Vesecky Family Farms. They too are taking orders for pastured turkeys, both heritage breeds and white broadbreasted. Call 785-594-2493 or 785-594-3477.
- The Community Mercantile. They’re offering turkeys from three local producers. Reserve yours at 785-843-8544.
In addition, at Localharvest.org you can find lists of turkey producers in Kansas and Missouri, or search for other locations. See also Eat Well Guide and Eatwild.
Plucky cover girls. A few of Lawrence’s urban chicken keepers and their birds get the cover-girl treatment in the current edition of Lawrence magazine. The link goes to the magazine cover; the story starts on page 76, which is easy to find if you locate the index at the top of the screen or type the page number in the box at the top of the screen. (Lawrence Magazine)
Plowing up zoning restrictions. As urban farming grows, so do conflicts between city zoning laws and farmers. The Kansas City, Mo., City Council is looking to ease some restrictions, while other cities in the area stand firm. Issues involve where these farmers can farm and sell produce as well as all manner of livestock questions. The matters pit neighborhood ambiance against the interests of farmers and their customers. (Kansas City Star)
Susan G. // Nov 12, 2009 at 11:34 am
Janet: remember Ingersoll’s turkey farm down the road from Grandma & Grandpa? They had a big operation but by today’s standards, they were practically free-range! If you want to get a local grown, pasture fed one for dinner, we’ll chip in on the cost.
Janet Majure // Nov 15, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Of course, I remember the Ingersolls’ turkeys. I don’t think they had it as good as the turkeys I’ve seen at a couple of farms here. As it happens, I’d already ordered a local turkey for Thanksgiving. I’ll get it, but I’d be delighted for you to get wine! Will talk soon.