Michigan couple grows their own ag legacy by fostering community connections through food

From unexpected beginnings to vibrant community engagement, Schomaker Farms showcases the profound impact that can arise when a love for farming and a dedication to community meet.

Nestled within the heart of Saginaw, Michigan, Schomaker Farms stands as a testament to the unexpected paths life can take, and the beautiful journey that can unfold when a love for farming meets community connection.

The story of Schomaker Farms is one of growth, collaboration, and the enriching impact of Farm Bureau membership. Ryan and Taylor’s story began when the farm was passed down from their grandmother, becoming the foundation for the family’s farming journey.

Starting with just a few acres, the husband and wife duo embarked on their farming adventure, cultivating produce that would soon find its way onto the plates of eager customers. What started small soon flourished, with 30 acres now dedicated to growing a variety of fresh market produce.

“We started farming just a couple acres, and then, over time it just exploded,” said Taylor Schomaker. “We loved the community connection and collaboration that was happening with local farmers but also with just community members.”

Their Shomaker’s young son, Bennett, embodies the spirit of generational continuity. At just one and a half years old, Bennett eagerly immerses himself in farm life—feeding chickens, playing with goats, and picking ripe raspberries —an early introduction to the legacy he may one day inherit.

To connect with the community and share their harvest, Schomaker Farms established a self-serve roadside stand, creating a direct link between their produce and the community’s tables.

But their impact reached further with the inception of the Thomas Township Farmers Market, an initiative that brings together 20 to 30 vendors local vendors, food trucks, and live music every Monday at Roberts Park. The market has become a vibrant hub of activity, showcasing the bounty of local agriculture while fostering a sense of togetherness.

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