Barr Farms

Settled in cozy Rhodelia, KY, Barr Farms sits in beautiful rolling hills right near the Ohio River. The farm, owned by the Barr family for seven generations, is now under partial ownership of the youngest Barr farmer, Adam. He and his fiance (yay!) Rae run a vegetable and meat CSA that makes its way to many a plate in the surrounding areas. 

Adam went off to college, leaving the farm behind but as soon as graduation hit, the call to return to land was incessant. He wanted to come back to the farm and change the way things had been done. Granted his father and uncle ran a decent cattle farm on the property, but now Adam was loaded with information on pesticides and treating the earth in a more respectful manner and became impassioned to supply local families with the healthiest of foods right from his own land. He mentioned the Native American outlook that we should create systems and traditions that are capable of lasting for seven generations and feels that it's quite profound that he is in fact the seventh generation to farm on the property. He has chosen to make a decision to treat the land with such respect and reverence that he wants the new sustainable system he is implementing to last for seven generations more. While this may seem like a lofty goal, his calm demeanor, tireless work ethic and true dedication to making sure that his customers know all about how the food was raised under his care, it seems like there is no way that Adam Barr can fail. 

It is really this sense of what is right for people, that overlaps everyone we talk to about sustainability and living a more localized life. Instead of lackadaisical attitudes, we have come across so many people that just want to do their share to make this world a better place. While so many people might say that "It's just food. What impact can that really make?" If people realized that our need for food and how we raise and grow it is the most profound impact and interaction that we have with the planet, maybe they might see that one less drop of chemicals on the land, one less sick, corn eating animal on our plates and one more dollar in the pocket of a local farmer really can make a difference if we all do our part. The filmmakers of "Down to Earth" never set out to guilt people into this lifestyle. We want people to feel an invitation to take their seat at the table. 

Whether it is one locally grown tomato from your local farmer or even starting your own little plant at home, even the littlest effort can add up to something big. Adam Barr is an inspiring person who, upon meeting him, makes others want to do something as impactful as he has. Though, in talking to him, you would never get the feeling that he thinks he is doing something profound, he is just following his heart and doing something he loves.