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Sports and Competition
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Sports and Competition
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Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery: A Sustainable Culinary Gem in Champaign

Champaign's Hidden Gem: Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery Blends Tradition, Sustainability, and Culinary Delight

Nestled in the heart of Champaign, Illinois, Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of sustainable agriculture and artisanal food production. This family-owned operation, founded in 2003 by Wes Jarrell and Leslie Cooperband, has evolved from a modest orchard into a thriving farmstead that produces award-winning cheeses, fresh fruits, and a range of farm-fresh products. What began as a passion project for the couple—both of whom have backgrounds in soil science and environmental studies—has blossomed into a beloved local institution that attracts visitors from across the Midwest and beyond. The farm's commitment to ethical farming practices, community engagement, and high-quality, small-batch production sets it apart in an era dominated by industrial agriculture.

At the core of Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery is its herd of over 100 goats, primarily Nubian and LaMancha breeds, which roam freely on the farm's 20 acres of pasture. These animals are the lifeblood of the creamery's cheese-making operations. The farm produces a variety of goat cheeses, including fresh chevre, aged varieties like the tangy Moonglo, and bloomy-rind options such as the creamy Angel Food. Each cheese is crafted using traditional methods, with milk sourced directly from the farm's goats, ensuring a farm-to-table freshness that is rare in today's market. The process begins early each morning with milking, followed by pasteurization and culturing in the on-site creamery. Visitors often remark on the distinct flavors imparted by the goats' diet, which includes a mix of alfalfa hay, fresh pasture grasses, and occasional treats from the farm's own orchards.

Beyond cheese, the farm boasts an impressive array of fruit trees and berry patches. Originally planted with peaches, apples, and berries, the orchards provide the raw materials for seasonal jams, ciders, and even fruit-infused cheeses. In the summer months, pick-your-own berry events draw families to the fields, where they can harvest strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries straight from the vine. This hands-on experience not only educates visitors about sustainable farming but also fosters a deeper appreciation for where food comes from. The farm's commitment to organic practices is evident here—no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers are used, relying instead on natural composting, crop rotation, and beneficial insects to maintain soil health and biodiversity.

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery. Jarrell and Cooperband, drawing from their academic expertise, have implemented innovative techniques to minimize environmental impact. Solar panels power much of the farm's operations, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Rainwater collection systems irrigate the fields, and waste from the goats is composted to enrich the soil. The farm also participates in conservation programs, preserving native prairie grasses on portions of the land to support local wildlife and pollinators. This holistic approach not only benefits the ecosystem but also enhances the quality of the products. For instance, the goats' milk yields cheeses with complex flavors influenced by the diverse forage available on the farm, a direct result of these eco-friendly practices.

Community involvement is another pillar of the farm's success. Prairie Fruits hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from farm dinners featuring multi-course meals prepared with on-site ingredients to educational workshops on cheese-making and sustainable gardening. These gatherings often include collaborations with local chefs and artisans, turning the farm into a hub for culinary creativity. One highlight is the annual "Goat Happy Hour," where guests can mingle with the animals while sampling cheeses paired with local wines and beers. Such events not only generate revenue but also build a loyal customer base, with many visitors returning seasonally or subscribing to the farm's CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program for regular deliveries of fresh produce and dairy.

The creamery's products have garnered national recognition, winning awards from the American Cheese Society and appearing in gourmet shops and restaurants across the country. Chefs praise the cheeses for their versatility—Moonglo, for example, melts beautifully in gratins or pairs elegantly with charcuterie. The farm's online store and presence at farmers' markets in Champaign-Urbana and Chicago extend its reach, allowing urban dwellers to experience a taste of rural Illinois. Despite this growth, Prairie Fruits remains true to its roots, emphasizing quality over quantity. Production is intentionally limited to maintain artisanal standards, with each wheel of cheese handcrafted and aged in temperature-controlled rooms.

Challenges have not been absent in the farm's journey. Weather fluctuations, common in the Midwest, have occasionally impacted fruit yields, while the demands of animal husbandry require constant vigilance. The COVID-19 pandemic posed additional hurdles, forcing adaptations like contactless pickups and virtual tours. Yet, these obstacles have only strengthened the farm's resilience. Jarrell and Cooperband have expanded their educational outreach, offering online classes and partnering with universities to teach about regenerative agriculture. This forward-thinking mindset ensures the farm's legacy will endure, inspiring future generations of farmers and food enthusiasts.

For those visiting Champaign, a trip to Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery offers more than just a shopping excursion—it's an immersion into a world where food production is an art form. The scenic drive through rolling fields leads to a welcoming farm store stocked with cheeses, preserves, and even goat-milk soaps made from surplus milk. Guided tours provide behind-the-scenes glimpses into the milking parlor and aging caves, while picnic areas invite lingering over a cheese platter amid the orchards. In an age of mass-produced goods, this farm reminds us of the value in slowing down, savoring the seasons, and supporting local producers.

Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery exemplifies how passion, science, and community can converge to create something truly special. As it continues to grow—recent expansions include a new event space for weddings and retreats—it remains grounded in its mission to nurture the land and delight the palate. Whether you're a cheese aficionado, a sustainability advocate, or simply someone seeking a peaceful escape, this Champaign treasure promises an experience that lingers long after the last bite. (Word count: 912)

Read the Full WCIA Champaign Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/champaign-prairie-fruits-farm-creamery-221013869.html ]