The Partnership

In 1977, Daniel Kuebler bought 30 acres of land in Ashland, Missouri.  From 1989 until the present, he ran a small organic farming operation called The Salad Garden with the help of friends, family, and employees.  He became a freq uent vendor at The Columbia Farmer’s Market and other markets in Mid-Missouri as well as a  steadfast supporter and participant of the sustainable, local food movement.

By 2010, Dan was looking to take a step back from the long, back-breaking work that running a farm required, yet he wanted his land to continue producing fresh, organic food for his community.  He sought out new blood and found Liberty Hunter and Leslie Touzeau, two young farmers looking to begin their own farming career, but who lacked the assets to afford their own land.  An equal partnership was formed between the three.  Dan would provide the land and much of the capital and infrastructure while Liberty and Leslie would take on the day-to-day management and physical work around the farm as their full-time job.

2011 will begin the first season of The Salad Garden, as operated by three partners.  The partnership provides opportunities for two young farmers with few assets to begin a farming career without going into debt and allows Dan to see his land continue it’s organic farming tradition.  With the expertise and knowledge of a well-seasoned farmer combined with the passion, dedication and hard work of two up-and-comers, 2011 promises to be a wonderful year for The Salad Garden as well as a learning experience for all involved.

Leslie and Liberty are ecstatic about joining Dan Kuebler and The Salad Garden, a farm with a stellar reputation and history.  Dan is excited to see the possibilities for the farm as it is worked to it’s fullest potential and proud to be assisting a new generation of farmers who seek to impact and change our food system for the better.