OUR STORY

Welcome to Harcliff Farms North!

Harcliff Farms North is proudly owned and operated by me, Rachel Balkwill, alongside my dedicated farming family—Mark, Tracy, Ben—and our exceptional support staff. We are now entering our fifth growing season of our constantly evolving market garden operation. What started on rented land in Ennismore, Ontario, has now blossomed into our home gardens in Omemee, Ontario, where we grow and harvest our crops with care and commitment. We focus on sustainable, natural farming practices, ensuring our produce is free from harmful pesticides or herbicides.

Our fresh, seasonal vegetables are currently available at our roadside farm stand in beautiful Buckhorn, Ontario, where we also offer a selection of other local favourites. For more details, please visit our

farm stand page for more. 

A Legacy of Farming

Farming has been a cornerstone of my life. My family originally hails from Essex County, where we ran a successful dairy farm while also maintaining a thriving backyard garden. I spent countless hours with my mother, grandmother, and aunts, learning to preserve and store fruits and vegetables. From a young age, I developed a deep respect for where food comes from—a value that continues to shape my life today.

Growing up in a farming community also provided me with a sense of peace and fulfillment. It wasn’t until I moved away after college to work in the corporate world in London, Ontario, that I realized how much I missed my agricultural roots. In 2019, I made the decision to leave my 9-to-5 job, return to my family, and pursue a career in Sustainable Agriculture at Fleming College.

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Honouring Tradition, Cultivating the Future

Today, I’m proud to carry forward the legacy of those who came before me by establishing my own agricultural roots through Harcliff Farms North. With the support of my family, we are able to share our passion for homegrown, fresh, and local food with our community.

Thank you for being a part of our journey!

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