— Submitted by the San Juan Visitors’ Bureau

In the islands, most of us know a bit about the farming history of our communities. But many of us don’t often get a chance to see behind the scenes of the process that brings food to our table. For three days in October, more than two dozen farms and farm-related businesses on Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Island will be open to the public, with demonstrations on everything from apple cider pressings to sheep shearing.

Each tour or workshop is priced separately. Tickets are available for cash purchase at each stop, or at www.eventbrite.com. Kids under 12 are free.

San Juan Island Three-Farm Walking Tour

Historic farms connect today’s farmers with the island’s cultural past

At the north end of San Juan, three historic farms share borders, and history. All three farms were homesteaded to grow fruit, from apples and pears to plums and now kiwi and Asian pears. On this tour, you can walk between the farms, talk to the farmers and purchase fruit and press cider to take home.

At the 20-acre Sweet Earth Farm, farmers Elaine Kendall and Amanda Zee raise animals and a range of fruit, herbs, vegetables, mushrooms and berries. On Oct. 11, noon to 4 p.m., you can tour their orchard, market garden, and livestock,.  Just through across the field and through the trees, is Mitchell Bay Farm, established in 1900.

The farmers Colleen Howe and Bruce Gregory will discuss the commercial kiwi and Asian pear orchard, sheep, and holistic management practices of the farm, integrating soil management, fertility, livestock grazing and crop production. Enjoy fresh brewed teas and home-baked cookies while sitting near the perennial gardens.

A short walk takes you to nearby Lacrover Farm, once part of a large family homestead from the late 1900s, and protected by a conservation easement through the San Juan Preservation Trust. It is now owned by Paul Lacrampe, Katie Hover and their son, Quinn. Known for their berries (strawberries in particular) they also grow a wide variety of produce both in the field and in their greenhouse, and raise sheep and chickens for meat and eggs.

The cost is $25 per person (children under 12 half-price).

Westcott Bay Cider and San Juan Distillery Tour

Visit Westcott Bay Cider and San Juan Island Distillery, located a short distance to the north, to tour the cider orchard and distillery producing award winning gin and apple brandy. “Taste the spirits of the San Juan Islands” at the distillery from 1 to 4 p.m.

There are also farm tours on Lopez and Orcas, visit http://www.visitsanjuans.com/.