Tucked into the hills of rural Hood River, Poole Family Farms has found its niche growing fresh produce, including mouthwatering cherries that ripen on the tree every summer. As one of our valued Dig Local partners, Poole Family Farms is a small family business fully focused on growing the sweetest produce possible. “We started planting cherries when I was just a youngster. Our family fell in love over the years, being able to provide that local and fresh connection to customers,” says Adam Poole, who oversees the farm’s produce sales. “It’s a challenging business to be in, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything.” Founded in 1946 by grandparents Denton and Gladys Poole, the homestead and orchard grew to include a wide variety of produce-producing trees. Adam’s parents, Don and Cindy Poole, took over the farm in 1979 and are still actively involved in the farm’s operations.

Mike Ellis grew up on the farmland that was his grandpa’s in Molalla, Oregon, and has carried on the family’s farming tradition at Mt. Hope Farms, learning the ropes from the time he was old enough to operate farm equipment, he says. Mike and his wife, Laura, specialize in making small-batch fruit spreads, crafted from the variety of berries and grapes grown on the farm. You can find Mt. Hope Farms fruit spreads in your Market’s specialty Cheese Shop. With flavors like Oregon Cranberry-Marionberry, Autumn Apple, Blueberry Orange Spice, Blackberry-Aronia-Lavender, these delicious spreads are perfect for your next cheese board. Ask your Market Cheesemonger for pairing recommendations. Market of Choice also carries Mt. Home Farms table grapes in the Produce Department. Grown organically and handpicked by the Ellis family at the peak of ripeness, these sweet, seedless grapes are delivered quickly to your Market to ensure premium quality and freshness.