Brandon Byrd is the steward of Grain Bin Farms, a 22-acre family farm located in Welcome, Maryland, in Charles County. The farm, purchased during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, has a rich history of agricultural production by elder family members and is currently dedicated to hay production.
The farm’s vision includes expanding into fruit orchards, vegetable and flower production, livestock, a bee apiary, and other agricultural practices. However, the farm faces a significant challenge due to an inadequate water supply. The existing hand-dug shallow well, dating back to the 1960s, has reached the end of its useful life. To implement the farm’s vision and comply with current Charles County regulations, a new artesian water well, reaching depths of up to 600 feet, is required.
As a RAFI grant recipient, Brandon Byrd and Grain Bin Farms will use the funds to make critical infrastructure upgrades, ensuring the farm’s future sustainability and growth.