FAINTING GOAT FARMS
+ Whidbey Island Honey
Welcome to Fainting Goat Farms and Whidbey Island Honey
Nestled in scenic south Whidbey, Fainting Goat Farms and Whidbey Island Honey emerged as a labor of love for Marie Fiore and David Tsujimoto. Their journey began three years ago when they purchased ten acres of land previously used for hay crops. Since then, they have made monumental progress with the land, which is now home to chickens, fainting goats, and bees. While their vibrant dream is still taking root, they're actively upgrading the farm's infrastructure, including plans for another greenhouse, barns, and a fieldhouse to host engaging workshops.
Sustainability
Even in their early years, Fainting Goat Farms and Whidbey Island Honey set an excellent example of how sustainable small producers can be. Marie believes that 'It is better to start right than fix wrong' which is exactly what they have done. From the very beginning, their approach to the land has been rooted in a no-till and no-spray philosophy.
Their devotion to all things eco-friendly can even be seen in their home life. Every food scrap that goes through their kitchen ends up being fed to the goats, chickens, or worms. They have even collaborated with the Whidbey Island Conservation District to create a nutrient management program that utilizes manure and composts to nourish their land.
Looking beyond their home, they have found a way to improve the sustainability of local businesses while reaping the benefit. They partner with Tonic Juice & Remedy by picking up all the organic juice pulp and scraps to nourish the chickens.
You can find the products of Fainting Goat Farms and Whidbey Island Honey on the Food Hub, the Tilth Farmers Market, and their personal farm stand.
Producer Feature & Photos by Ella Simmons
GOATS, CHICKENS, AND THE GARDEN
For David, goats, particularly the captivating fainting goats, have long held an irresistible allure. Thus, a pact was formed; if they started a farm, they had to have goats. Marie wholeheartedly embraced the idea, sarcastically recounting her response to this proposition as ‘Oh no! Not goats’. She wanted them all along. Now they have three fainting goats. One named Peanut, one named Butter, and one named Jelly.
Along with the goats, their journey led them to an unexpected love for chickens. What began as a modest endeavor quadrupled beyond their initial intentions, the newest addition being four baby chicks. Their flock of 40 now produces a mesmerizing array of eggs – from light brown to blue and even green (a feature that never fails to captivate customers).
The BEES
Sometimes, the sweetest treasures emerge serendipitously. Their introduction to beekeeping began as a hobby, yet now it has morphed into one of the most integral parts of their farming narrative. Whidbey Island Honey, a byproduct of this adventure, has become a symbol of their commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem on their property. Marie and David have over 60 beehives, and the honey, honeycomb, and even the wax (made into beautiful candles) are for sale at their farm stand and on the Food Hub.
Three proud years
In their three short years, Marie and David have made bounding progress. Not only have they built all of the outbuildings across the farm, but they have drastically improved the soil health and quality. They tend to and harvest from numerous beds of seasonal vegetables and flowers. Marie's passion for nurturing flowers and cultivating vegetables has been a lifelong joy, inspiring her to continually experiment and explore. They have also planted many fruit trees, some already wildly prosperous. Additionally, Marie recounts how their connections with new neighbors have flourished, especially with the help of their many hives of welcomed pollinators.
Like all small farmers, challenges are no strangers to their journey. Striving to figure out what works and what doesn't, balancing their time and energy, has been a challenging task. Yet, through their development of Fainting Goat Farms and Whidbey Island Honey, Marie Fiore and David Tsujimoto have created a beautiful, sustainable, and inspiring atmosphere from their slice of the island. Their journey embodies the spirit of growth, resilience, and prosperity that arises when farming on Whidbey Island.
FUN FACTS
The goats actually faint (no, it’s not just a cute name) !
Fave food - Honey + Cheese, Strawberries, and Banh Mi sandwiches
Upcoming Travel Destination - India
Favorite Musician - Nora Jones
