About Us

Hi I'm Mary.  I am a lifelong naturalist, gardener, and educator who strives to make the world a better place through sustainable living and farming.  I grew up on a beef cattle farm in Hoxeyville, Michigan, where I spent hours outside with the animals and in my mother's garden.  With a passion for learning and seeing the world, I explored it in my 20's connecting with different styles of educators, farmers, and environmentalists throughout the country.  Coming back home with all I have learned inspired me to share my knowledge through a nature-based education program.  With the help of my children, husband, and the community, Forest & Farm was born.

Hi, I'm Emily.  I was born and raised on a small hobby farm in Reed City, Michigan.  Being involved in 4-H at an early age has taught me the value of hard work, responsibility and ultimately led to pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies.  I have a passion for sustainable living, farming, and animals, which I love sharing with eager young minds.  When I learned about Forest and Farm, I knew I had to be a part of such a unique program.  Exploring the arts, sciences, and this amazing community with these kids has genuinely been a blessing.  The young mind surprises me every day, and I'm so grateful I get to be a part of helping it grow.