
“Lively Up Farm started three years ago in Valle Crucis. I, Matt Cooper, am the farmer. I lease from the Episcopal Church in Valle Crucis 1 acre of land. This year they have cultivated an additional ¾ of an acre to support me in my farming experience. I have been growing 20+ varieties of vegetables organically. My goal is to meet 100% of my family’s needs through self-sufficient living. We freeze, can, and store in the cellar most of our food and of course eat fresh when in season. This year I have focused on increasing my greens production and heirloom winter squash varieties, along with specialty varieties you will see at the markets. I am going to be using season extensions for the first time this year allowing me to harvest earlier and longer. Can’t wait to bring in the veggies for another year!”
Matt Cooper, Lively Up Farm