Waterpenny Farm

Rachel Bynum and Eric Plaksin, . Website http://www.waterpennyfarm.com

Location: Sperryville, Virginia, in Rappahannock county next to Shenandoah National Park

Major Crops or Products: We grow some of just about everything. Squash, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes (including many heirloom varieties), basil, watermelons, cantaloupes, peppers, cherry tomatoes, onions, garlic, cut flowers, and plants (herbs and perennial flowers).

Rachel and Eric at the Takoma Park Market

Acres: We grow vegetables on 8 acres.

Years farming: Fulltime farmers since 2000.

Why farm? We like farming because we enjoy working outside and being in touch with the seasons. We enjoy having lots of delicious, fresh produce to eat and to share with others.

A rainbow of Waterpenny tomatoes

Other markets attended: Charlottesville, VA, Saturdays 7-12. Warrenton, VA, Saturdays 7-12.

A summer market all set up

Why do you like the market? People are appreciative of the work that goes into our farm. Many are interested in us on a personal level as well, which feels good. My favorite thing is overhearing people comment on the vegetables. It's rewarding when others see (and taste!) the beauty and value of our work as farmers.

Of special interest: We're named after Waterpennies, which are small, aquatic beetle larvae that live in the river that borders our farm. They can only live in clean water, and are therefore an indicator of good quality water in our stream. Our farming practices are ecologically based, sustainable methods which will allow the waterpennies, and our ecosystem, to thrive.

Rachel's brother, Nathan, juggles at market as "the Jazzy Juggler" http://www.jazzyjuggler.com

A member of Takoma Park Market since: 2000

Go to Regional Map