Sustainable chestnut farming with Kathy Dice

Sustainable chestnut farming with Kathy Dice

In this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, we sit down with Kathy Dice of Redfern Farms to talk about sustainable chestnut farming, agroforestry, and community. Her story shows how one small farm can experiment with trees, animals, and people in ways that add up over decades.

Chestnuts at the heart of a diverse farm

First, Kathy shares how chestnuts became a backbone crop on Redfern Farms, alongside other tree species and perennials. She explains why chestnut trees fit so well into agroforestry systems and how they offer food, shade, wildlife habitat, and long-term income on the same acres. You will hear how chestnuts can work for both small family farms and larger operations.

Agroforestry innovations in practice

Next, we dive into specific agroforestry practices that make the farm resilient. Kathy talks about silvopasture, mixed-species plantings, and how animals and trees work together. She also describes how careful design, patient observation, and simple tools can reduce inputs while keeping productivity strong over time.

Community, education, and shared learning

Meanwhile, Kathy highlights the role of community in sustainable chestnut farming. She shares how Redfern Farms uses you-pick models, on-farm events, and practical education to invite people into the orchard. These efforts help more families learn about chestnuts, support local food systems, and see perennial agriculture up close.

An invitation to future-focused growers

By the end of this episode, you will have a clearer sense of how sustainable chestnut farming and agroforestry can reshape both land and livelihoods. Whether you are an aspiring grower, a curious eater, or a farmer looking for the next step, this conversation offers ideas, examples, and encouragement to design a more resilient future with chestnuts at the center.