Chris and Liz McCune had long dreamed of having a farm where they could grow organic food for their family of six and the community of Wheat Ridge, CO. Their dream was fast-tracked in 2013 when Chris ordered 100 adorable baby chickens to their Denver home, which quickly took over the garage. They needed a farming space, and they needed it fast.
The couple found a one-acre property that they have lovingly transformed into a thriving farm full of life above and below the soil surface. They grow fruits, vegetables and cut flowers, tending to them using no-till practices and organic inputs. They also raise goats, bees, and, of course, the chickens that helped make their dream come true.
This year marks the twelfth season of the 16-week harvest share program at Roost Farms. The seeds are sown in late winter, and the contents of the weekly bags begin to take shape. The farm share offers a diverse selection of seasonal vegetables, herbs, salad greens, and fruits. Members roll with what Mother Nature provides and understand that some weeks, they may receive more of one item than another. They also know that they’re receiving the finest quality locally grown produce, eggs, and honey around. Everything in the baskets is produced on Roost Farms. The baskets come with “cut your own” flower bouquets (beginning mid-summer) and recipe ideas for their harvests. As a token of appreciation for their support, each month, harvest share members also enjoy a dozen free organic eggs, mushrooms provided by Furst Class Fungi, and Liz’s Denver County Fair Blue Ribbon Multi-Grain Bread, which starts with home-ground flour.
Chris and Liz have raised their four children outdoors in nature, and they want others to experience the same joys. They open the farm gates so people can spend a day with their hands in the dirt. Children enjoy the zipline or play in a massive sandbox before visiting the animals. Chris also offers tours through the vegetable patch. A summer camp program teaches the basics of caring for animals and plants, revealing the simple yet meaningful aspects of farm life. Every moment at Roost Farms has the potential to spark imagination and a connection with nature. For those looking to stay in this urban paradise longer, two rentals are available on the property, including a historic trolley car that has been beautifully transformed into a one-bedroom, one-bathroom retreat. The rentals are perfect for unwinding after exploring nearby downtown Denver. They also host private events, yoga retreats, member events, and volunteer opportunities.
Chris and Liz are forever grateful for the opportunity to work with the dirt, water, and plants, feeding their community healthy food. Dreams can come true (but you don’t necessarily need 100 chicks to make it happen!).
