Finalist for the 2012 City of Victoria Butler Book Prize New farmers, experienced growers, budding environmentalists, and fans of natural, organic produce alike are sure to love All the Dirt. Filled with beautiful photographs and covering a wide variety of topics, from agrofuels and food sovereignty to practical tips about specific tools, All the Dirt is the must-read how-to book about small-scale organic farming. But beyond the practical applications, it is also the inspiring story of three friends who followed their dreams and became successful business partners. Authors Rachel Fisher, Heather Stretch, and Robin Tunnicliffe, co-owners of Saanich Organics, a farmer-run local food distributor, share entertaining stories of three farmers' lives, while also providing practical information about how to start a farm. They relate their personal and collective experiences as women, mothers, and farmers through anecdotes, and discuss the compelling reasons why Canada needs more organic farmers. All the Dirt proves that there is no one right way to start a farm and no single solution to any problem. But that by working together, farmers can create a resilient agriculture that is vibrant and fun, as well as economically viable. Rachel, Heather, and Robin have co-owned Saanich Organics since 2002. The business has been featured in numerous publications, including the Times Colonist, West Jet's Up! magazine, EAT Magazine, and The Province. It has also been featured in Island on the Edge (a documentary film), as well as on CBC radio. By working co-operatively to grow and distribute top quality produce, the business has earned the respect of the farming community, the restaurant community, organic consumers, and activists. Visit Saanich Organics online at www.saanichorganics.com.
Rachel Fisher was born in Victoria, BC, and spent her childhood exploring all of the nooks and crannies of the great outdoors. She received a BA in Anthropology and Environmental Studies from the University of British Columbia, and spent several months studying plant medicine. When she isn't working on her farm, volunteering with community and farming organizations, or mentoring new farmers, Rachel enjoys hiking, reading, and developing her cooking skills. She lives in Victoria with her partner and their two children.
Heather Stretch was born in Edmonton, Alberta. She has a BA and an MA in English Literature, with a focus on Post-Colonial and Native Literature. She has travelled extensively, visiting the UK, Israel, South America, and Central America. Her interest in social justice issues and her love of the outdoors led her to a career in organic farming. Heather enjoys cooking, hiking, yoga, and listening to audiobooks while working in the field. She lives on Vancouver Island with her husband and their three sons.
Robin Tunnicliffe was born in South Porcupine, Ontario, and holds an MA in Food Policy from the University of Victoria. After a family garden inspired an early interest in permaculture and three years spent planting trees convinced her that she wanted to make a living working outside, organic farming seemed the most logical career choice. Robin mentors new farmers and loves to share her farming experiences with others. She enjoys hiking with her dog, salsa dancing, and mountain biking. She lives in Victoria, BC.
