Customer Feature: Spring Valley Farm & Orchard (Hampshire County, W. Va.)

Spring Valley Farm is a diversified fruit and vegetable farm owned and operated by Eli and Misty Cook. Spanning 800 acres in the rolling hills and valley of Augusta, W. Va., Spring Valley Farm grows specialty produce year-round in their 16 heated greenhouses, which allows them to offer produce that is “fresh from the ground, year-round”. With over 80 varieties grown, Spring Valley Farm provides variety, without compromising quality for quantity. 

Humble beginnings 
Eli started in agriculture as a 12 year old. His interest in agriculture began as a small project for FFA and has continued to grow from there. In 1988, Eli graduated from West Virginia University with a degree in business and marketing. Years later, his skills in business management and marketing have propelled Spring Valley into one of the largest fruit and vegetable retailers in the Washington, D.C. area.

Farmers markets and farm stands 
In addition to their farming operation, the Cook’s operate two roadside markets and participate in six farmers markets in northern Virginia and Washington, DC. Some of the markets are open year-round, while some are only open seasonally. 

Good times and bad
Over the years, Spring Valley has had its ups and downs, its good times and its bad times. “We all hit hard times, whether that’s a hail storm, a freeze or a field that is too wet. Agriculture can be very challenging,” he said.

And it has been crucial to have support during the challenging times to ensure that the business can continue. “Without funding, without bridging gaps when we have hard times, it’s hard to keep a small farm operating,” Eli said.

When times have gotten tough, Eli has turned to Farm Credit of the Virginias for support. “Farm Credit’s specialty in agriculture means they understand the challenges that we face on a yearly and daily basis. We appreciate the help and support they provide for us and in times of need,” he said.

Looking at the big picture, Eli understands the importance of farms like his to the vibrancy of rural communities. He said, “Supporting rural communities and agriculture is very important for the future existence of agriculture in rural communities.” And Farm Credit is proud to finance farmers like Eli each and every day, living out our mission to support rural communities and agriculture across the nation.