07/06/2026
The above picture is one of our cherry tomato plants. The spindly, curly look is from herbicide drift from a farm in the area. This was determined mid last week and caused us to halt sales of all produce until what we knew was safe to eat. After consultation with UK, testing, and advice, it is safe to sell everything from the farm except for the cherry tomatoes. A formal complaint to the KY Dept. of AG has been made and we will investigate best we can to determine where this came from. Unfortunately drift can come from miles away through air and water v***r. Sorry we won’t have any cherry tomatoes this year. It is a huge crop for us in terms of revenue (~20k) and the experience has been emotionally difficult.
Does this happen often on farms? Yes. This is happening more and more, and not just farms. Trees, wildlife, and water sources are all affected.
Do most farms report it? No. There is no incentive to do so.
Is it illegal to sell produce affected by herbicides? Yes. Most herbicides aren’t labeled to be applied to edible crops so there is no allowable limit of residue.
Would some farms still sell the crop anyway? Yes.
Will this affect our organic certification? Yes. Most likely this tunnel will lose its certification, and it will take 3 years to get it back.
Do I have to share all this with you? No. But I believe in being transparent with our customers and want you to know that your safety and health supersedes my bottom line.
I also think this is an educational moment to share with the public. I encourage you to do your own research on herbicide drift; the role of big AG, GMOs, dicamba (a herbicide), the effect on our planet, our health, and the role the government is playing. Be prepared to be outraged.
Please let this be a reminder of the importance of knowing where your food comes from, knowing your farmer, supporting organic, and supporting local.
-Maggie
