Bringing farming back to Stratford - Scott Seeley’s Fictitious Farm

 

Farming had been one of the main occupations listed for Stratford residents since the town was founded in 1805.  But as many know farming is not easy in the Adirondacks.  Short growing seasons, a terrain that is rocky and unforgiving and unpredictable weather all provide challenges to those that have farmed this area.   Stratford’s farms began dwindling in the 20th century.   But there are those that have a vision of forest farming.  Scott Seeley is one of those farmers. 

 

Scott Seeley founded his 85-acre Fictitious farm in 2015.   Scott is assisted by his wife Amy, and children Katelyn and Hayden.  Scott studied wildlife biology as an undergraduate in Montana before returning to this area.    Scott farms cows, chickens, turkeys and pigs.  His livestock are raised on his farm’s forestland.  His goal was to make the farm as sustainable as possible and the livestock to coexist with wildlife.   Scott follows an old Adirondack farming practice called Silvopasture.  Silvopasture is used in mountainous terrains and involves the integration of trees into grazing of livestock.   This type of farming provides animals with a nutrient-rich diet.

 

Scott sells his products at the Spa City Farmers’ Market on Sundays from 10 to 2 p.m. all year round, Speculator Farmers’ Market on Thursdays 2-5 and Canada Lake Store & Marina in Caroga Lake.  

 

Scott also offers a Chicken CSA where customers who sign up will receive a chicken a week.    Fresh turkeys are available at Thanksgiving, and delicious hams are for sale during the year.  This year he is offering half hog’s cut to your specifications.   

 

It is very comforting to know that the food you are eating comes from a sustainable farm.  It is even better to know that it comes from your town.

 

If you are not able to get to one of the farmers markets Scott does sell from the farm by appointment only.   His number is 518-752-9083.    He is hoping to set up a store soon. 

 

Follow Scott and Fictitious Farm on Facebook, and  Instagram or come see him at one of the many area events where he sells delicious chicken on a stick, burgers and sausage .