Klein Ventures

In the Lewiston Orchards, Jessica Klein and her family operate a two and a third-acre farm that functions as a largely self-sufficient ecosystem. Acquired approximately five years ago, the property came with chickens, which sparked expansion into a diverse operation.

The farm now includes cattle, turkeys, multiple fruit trees, and five beehives. A symbiotic relationship exists between the bees and chickens — the latter control smaller insects that might harm the former, while the bees help fruit trees flourish. Kitchen scraps and excess fruit feed the animals, minimizing waste.

Jessica manages the day-to-day operations as a stay-at-home mother while maintaining rotating incubators to ensure consistent chick production. The farm supplies 15 dozen eggs weekly to Happy Day Local, with eggs thoroughly washed before distribution.

The family processes one cow annually for personal consumption. As Jessica notes, "The animals are raised happy," reflecting her commitment to ethical animal husbandry.

The operation includes Gravy, a pet turkey with dog-like personality traits, alongside geese that maintain separation from other animals. Free-ranging animals receive supplemental hay bales. The Klein family strives for self-sustainability, supplying their household needs while offering surplus to the community.

Jessica advises prospective farmers to "start with chickens," acknowledging that small farming faces barriers including buyer connectivity and higher pricing compared to commercial groceries — a necessity rather than choice.

To learn more about Klein Ventures, check out their Facebook Page.