MEET THE FARMER Series

Welcome to our MEET THE FARMER series, where we celebrate the dedicated growers who nourish our communities. Meet Bob Bush of Bush Farms, whose story embodies the heart of multi-generational farming and the power of community support.

Growing Up on the Land

Bob's connection to his farm runs deeper than most—it's been his home for virtually his entire life. When his father purchased the property in the early 1970s, twelve-year-old Bob began a journey that would shape his future. Working alongside his dad until 2006, Bob learned not just the mechanics of farming, but the values that sustain it.

In 2007, when his father retired, Bob stepped into the role he'd been preparing for his whole life. Today, he continues the family tradition with the same dedication and passion that has defined Bush Farms for decades.

Diversity in Every Season

Bob's approach to farming reflects both practicality and passion. His operation spans an impressive variety of crops, ensuring fresh offerings throughout the growing season. Starting with asparagus in the spring—much of which goes to American Asparagus just a quarter-mile down the road—Bob's farm produces cucumbers, zucchini, peaches, tart cherries, pears, and apples for his on-farm market.

The fall brings an abundance of squash, pumpkins, and sweet corn, while his farm store offers apple cider, honey, and maple syrup year-round, creating a true farm-to-table experience for his customers.

Faith, Family, and Community

For Bob, farming begins with faith. "It starts with prayer to me to do what I do. I gotta have faith in God," he explains. This foundation provides strength for the challenges that every farmer faces, allowing him to trust that while he may not get everything he wants, he'll get what he needs.

Family support is equally vital. Bob's wife plays an integral role in the operation, helping with everything from farm tasks to running the market. It's this partnership that makes the demanding lifestyle sustainable and rewarding.

The Power of Good Neighbors

Perhaps nothing exemplifies the spirit of rural community like Bob's relationships with neighboring farmers Caleb from American Asparagus and Scott Lewis from Lewis Adventure Farm. "All I gotta do is call 'em up," Bob says about borrowing equipment. "I have had them stop using something so that I could borrow it."

This network of mutual support extends beyond equipment sharing to selling each other's produce when needed. It's a reminder that in farming communities, success is often a collective effort.

A Way of Life

"Farming is not really what we consider a job. It's a way of life," Bob reflects. "You're never done." Despite the demanding schedule and hard work, Bob finds deep satisfaction in watching things grow and being his own boss. His advice is simple but profound: "If you don't love it, it's probably not for you."

Bob's dedication comes from passion, not obligation. He admits he probably wouldn't work this hard for anyone else, but doing it for himself, on his own land, makes every early morning and long day worthwhile.

Watch Bob's full story in the video above and discover how faith, family, and community support create the foundation for a lifetime of successful farming.