MARTINSBURG — When a devasting frost came through the region in late April, farms throughout the Eastern Panhandle lost a large amount of produce. Orr’s Farm was just one of many farms impacted, but just like the rest they’ve learned to adapt and make the most of the situation.
Since 1954 Orr’s Farm has been an important part of Berkeley County. Now run by Katy Orr-Dove and her husband Don Dove, the farm continues their family legacy, growing fruits and vegetables throughout the year and selling their produce to the community. However, after the frost this year they lost all their peaches and cherries and almost all their apples, strawberries and blueberries. With such a devasting loss, they had to change and find new ways to impact the community.
“We can’t prevent frost,” Katy said. “So when you look ahead, the weather’s going to do what the weather’s going to do. So what farmers can do is we can diversify. And that’s what we’re doing.”
One of the biggest things they are planning this year is the Fountain Fest, a two day Christian music festival. On Sept. 18-19, they will invite food trucks, Christian organizations and artisans to set up tables while guests come enjoy talented music artists. Bands like Church Friends and artists like Lindy Brayson and Riley Clemmons will perform while guests can come camp in tents and RV right on the Orr’s Farm.
In addition to the festival, Katy and Don opened a new Ice Cream truck where they serve soft served treats and special concoctions made by staff using Orr’s popular items. They also started Camp Sunshine, inviting kids ages 5 to 12 to experience life on the farm. They learn how to pick berries and vegetables, pet some adorable animals and participate in a wide range of activities from art, music and cooking.
Despite the hardship, Katy and Don try to stay positive and use this as an opportunity to grow the farm in new ways. Katy said she’s learned not to panic and shut down but instead to learn and find new ways to adapt. Don added that even during a rough year, they are still responsible for their staff, so learning to adapt and overcome is essential for a farmer. One of the main things that has helped them throughout the journey is their faith.
“Our faith is really the only thing keeping us rolling right now,” Don said. “We know we’re going to be okay and the Lord’s going to take care of us, no matter what comes our way. We just have to be willing to move and do things different.”
One of the best ways the community can support Orr’s and other farms in the area is by continuing to visit regularly. Though prices for produce is a bit higher because they have to purchase it from other farms and transport it here, they still offer many fruits and vegetables. Their new ice cream truck opened in June and there is plenty of space for people to come and relax with their families. Katy would love to see more people come out and spend time on the farm.
“We want people to come out and get to know their neighbors here and get to know other people from our town by hanging out in a beautiful place and just relax,” Katy said. “We’d love to see more evening guests come out.”
For more information about Orr’s Farm and its upcoming events, visit https://orrsfarmmarket.com/.
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