Harlequin Produce

Kaly Hess and Brian Wirak, Montana natives, have been farming in Western Montana since 2009. They lease established farms, allowing them to focus on farming techniques without the burden of land and equipment acquisition. This year, they are leasing Common Ground Farm in Arlee.

With a background in Agroecology from Montana State University, they incorporate ecological principles into their farming. They use living mulches and conservation tillage to enhance the dynamics between plants and soil. Their methods emphasize the importance of maintaining soil health and biodiversity.

They run a small CSA and sell produce at the Clark Fork Farmers' Market and wholesale to the Western Montana Growers' Cooperative. Their CSA offers a variety of seasonal vegetables, encouraging community interaction and recipe sharing. The CSA season runs for 20 weeks, from June to October, providing members with fresh, locally grown produce.