This Year’s Farm Walk is for the Birds – and the Fun

Matt McAdam mows a path across McDougal Orchards fields in advance of the Springvale Farm Walk.

Photo: Lee Burnett

By Lee Burnett, Submissions Editor

Residents and visitors will have a chance to walk from farm to farm in the agricultural pocket of Springvale during the weekend of July 27 and July 28 to celebrate Maine Open Farm Day.

The 10^th annual Springvale Farm Walk is a self-guided walk between farms linked by mowed paths and gravel trails. The 10 farms along the route raise sheep, orchard fruit, vegetables, herbs, berries and more. This year’s theme is “Birds and their Habitats.” Each farm will provide a collectible bird identification card and may have refreshments or additional farm items for sale. A bird walk guided by York County Audubon is scheduled to start at 8 am on Sunday, July 28, at McDougal Orchards.

The event runs from 10 am to 2 pm both Saturday and Sunday. There is no single starting time or place. Parking is available at multiple farms and there are bathrooms and portable toilets along the route. The paths are well-marked and kid friendly. Sturdy shoes and dressing according to the weather forecast are recommended. Mountain bikers, runners, and dogs on leashes are also welcome.

A barn contra dance featuring live band Stomp Rocket and caller Alyssa Adkins will go from 6-8 pm on Saturday evening, July 27, at McDougal Orchards (ticketed event).

Maps and updated details can be found on the Springvale Farm Walk Facebook page. More information is also available from polly@mcdougalorchards.com.