Member Profile: Belluz Farm
Posted: January 7, 2013
Categories: Food in the News / Member Profiles / News from Sustain Members
By Laurie Michael
Mary and Bernie Belluz fell in love with the idea of having their own farm. Finally, in 1946, after years working various jobs, including in the mines, they saved up and bought the first 100 acres of the Belluz Farms property in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Fast forward to 1972 when their son Don Belluz and his wife Claire took over the farm, expanding to 300 acres and converted the mostly wholesale potato business to a Pick-Your-Own fruit and vegetable farm. In 2003, Kevin and Jodi Belluz took the reins adding a small greenhouse business, producing Certified Organic young plants. As well, they expanded the amount and variety of fruits and vegetables on the farm and with a farm-gate approach, over 80% of produce sales are marketed to consumers.
Originally, Kevin and Jodi did not have plans to take over the farm. After going to university, working and travelling abroad they realized their passion for sustainable agriculture and the impact it could have on their community. As well, the idea of owning their own business was another important factor that led them back to Thunder Bay. Although farming can be difficult at times, the rewards are even greater for the Belluz’s and have turned out to be a perfect fit for their family.
“Our inspiration is simply the pleasure of food. It’s watching our kids devouring sun-warmed strawberries – juice dripping off of their chins. It’s preparing vegetables picked only hours ago and then gathering together at our table to eat. And, as farmers, being a part of the larger re-discovering of those pleasures is a tremendous honor and responsibility. As the third generation responsible for the stewardship of our land, we’re continually maintaining and improving our sustainable farm practices. Our reward is growing amazingly fresh and delicious fruit and vegetables knowing that, on our farm, the same opportunity will be available for an indefinite number of generations”. – Kevin and Jodi Belluz
Not only are the Belluz’s involved in sustainable farming, but they are also a crucial presence in their community. They have developed local programs for providing education around agriculture and gleaning opportunities; created partnerships with local organizations such as food banks; and employ only local residents on their farm.
A final note from Kevin, “It is essential that we re-establish the value of food in today’s society. Only then will farmers receive reasonable compensation for their contributions to the ecosystem, which will allow them to avoid the issues of heavy industrializations while still enjoying the advantages of some economies of scale. With food costs at their lowest point relative to disposable income is it any wonder we see a system that is stretching beyond the bounds to stay together? More sustainable practices will help insulate farms from the coming fluctuations in climate and allow increased success on the family farm. Incidentally, it might also solve a lot of health care issues and their commensurate costs as well.”
For more information on crop schedules and produce availability, community events, and location in Thunder Bay, check out the Belluz Farm website!