Rooted in Harmony: Rooted in Harmony: The Sustainable Rhythm of Brookford Farm
Gretchen Doumit, Customer Service Specialist
Susan Nelson, Editor
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As our Valley harvest winds down and the bright summer bounty gives way to the hearty, nutrient-dense colors of fall, we pause to celebrate the farmers who sustain us — season after season — with all things wonderful, grown right from our Valley soil.
This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Brookford Farm, where Luke and Catarina Mahoney have built a thriving, sustainable farm on 600 acres in Canterbury, New Hampshire.
A Love Story Rooted in the Land
Luke and Catarina’s story began on a farm in Russia, where both were learning sustainable agriculture. Their shared curiosity and commitment to the earth led them to Germany, where they deepened their understanding of European farming methods. Eventually, they returned to New England with their four boys — Oliver, Emmanuel, David and Raphael — to put down roots and build Brookford Farm.
From the beginning, they chose a diversified farming model — one where every element of the farm plays a symbiotic role. The crops feed both farmer and animal, leftovers are turned into nutrient-rich compost, and the animals return the favor with manure that rejuvenates the soil. Even byproducts like cheese whey and food scraps are repurposed. Nothing goes to waste; everything nourishes something else.
This full-circle approach allows Brookford to offer an impressive range of products while maintaining the health of their land and animals.
Milk, Cheese, and Creamery Delights
The heart of Brookford Farm beats in its dairy. Their Jersey and Guernsey cows, 100% grass-fed on pastures of clover and diverse grasses, produce A2 milk — rich in Omega-3s, vitamins A and E, and beta-carotene. Brookford’s milk, raw and unpasteurized, retains all its natural probiotics and enzymes. Fully licensed by the NH Department of Health, their dairy meets or exceeds the most rigorous safety standards.
It’s no surprise they were named “Best Milk” by New Hampshire Magazine and “Best Microdairy” in 2014. That same creamy milk lends a deep golden hue to their cheeses and cultured butter. From fresh mozzarella to two-year-aged smoked gouda, Brookford’s cheeses are perfect for charcuterie boards and fall gatherings — especially when paired with their smoked and cured meats.
Their yogurt, made from their own pasteurized milk, is thick, protein-rich, and free of additives and preservatives.
Pasture-Raised Meats and Eggs
Brookford’s grass-fed beef is rich, lean, and flavorful — just as nature intended. Their heritage pigs roam the pastures, feasting on field leftovers and creamery byproducts, supplemented with non-GMO grain. The result: deeply flavorful pork, available as bacon, sausage and other cured specialties.
Their hens thrive on non-GMO feed, open pastures and sunshine, laying eggs with vibrant, sun-yellow yolks. Duck eggs are also available when in season. For furry friends, they even offer pet food patties made from nutrient-dense offal — a wholesome power boost for your pets.
From Field to Table
Brookford grows over 40 varieties of certified organic, non-GMO vegetables and fruits. Harvested at their seasonal peak and brought straight to Market, their produce changes week to week depending on availability.
This time of year, it’s all about dark leafy greens, root vegetables and winter squashes — perfect for cozy soups and Sunday stews. Don’t forget to check out the Squash Chart at the Market’s Welcome Booth, inspired by Brookford’s bounty!
Fermented Foods & Farm Creations
Irina, who hails from Russia, created all of the recipes crafting a delicious line of naturally fermented vegetables — from sauerkrauts and kimchi to pickled carrots — all made with ingredients grown right on their farm. Packed with vitamin C and beneficial probiotics, these fermented favorites promote gut health and overall well-being.
Can’t decide which to try? Grab a Kraut Sampler at their table. Farmer Luke’s favorite: Korean Fermented Carrots mixed with mashed avocado — the perfect topping for toast or dip for veggies.
And when the chill sets in, reach for their bone broths — simmered low and slow to release collagen and minerals. Choose from several chicken flavors or their hearty beef broth for soups, stews or sipping straight from a mug after a day outdoors.
Bulk, CSA and Beyond
Brookford’s products are available weekly at their Market booth — individually packaged or in bulk. They also offer a CSA program and home delivery to many zip codes. Visit their website to see if delivery is available in your area.
From the Farm to the Stage
Here’s a fun fact: Brookford Farm has been supplying fresh food to Dave Matthews and his cooking staff for nearly a decade! It all started when the Mahoneys were still farming in Dover and Matthews was playing sets in Portsmouth. While rare that a grocery store or restaurant would take products from everything Brookford Farm offers, Matthews and his cooking staff would order everything from organic produce to sauerkrauts and kimchis, pickles to grass-fed cheeses and yogurts, and of course, grass-fed meats — a true taste of New Hampshire’s best.
A Conversation with Farmer Luke
The harvest may be winding down, but the work never stops. How are you preparing for the coming season?
We harvest until about Thanksgiving,” says Luke. “This time of year, we start moving cows from pasture to what we call ‘sacrifice fields,’ so the main pastures can recover and regenerate. We supplement with hay and feed but make sure they still get plenty of sunlight and fresh air. We also plant cover crops like rye grass and winter grains to hold the soil and prevent erosion.
What challenges did you face this year?
Drought,” he admits. “We ran irrigation pumps day and night. Thankfully, the Merrimack River runs right by the property — it kept us going.
You offer such a wide variety of products! Why not bring everything to Market?
We can’t do it all,” Luke laughs. “Catarina’s mom helps a lot, and we work with other New England businesses to ensure consistent quality. Everything we bring is locally sourced, so customers can shop confidently knowing they’re supporting our region’s producers.
Can customers place special orders for the holidays? How about delivery or CSA signups?
We don’t take custom holiday orders, but customers can pre-order items from our website for pickup or delivery,” Luke says. “Delivery is available in many areas — customers choose their day of the week. We just don’t accept orders more than a week in advance to ensure freshness. And CSA signups? Anytime — no deadlines.
What’s on tap for the holidays
We don’t offer turkeys, but our grass-fed prime roast is a showstopper,” says Luke. “We also ramp up cheese production — people love it for parties and gifts. And our annual Christmas with the Cows event keeps growing. This year, we’re hosting it over three weekends, so get your tickets early!
Visit the Farm
If you haven’t yet made the trip to Brookford Farm, it’s worth adding to your weekend plans. Throughout the year, the Mahoneys open their gates for family-friendly events that bring their community together in the most down-to-earth way. Fall favorites like Puppets and Pumpkins fill the farm with laughter, music, and warm cider, while winter ushers in their beloved Christmas with the Cows — complete with caroling, farm-fresh treats, and twinkling lights in the barn. Whether you come for the food, the festivities, or simply to soak in the pastoral peace, visiting Brookford is a reminder of what it means to stay connected to the land — and to the people who care for it.
As we wrap up another successful Summer Market season and look forward to the bounty at our Winter Market, we give thanks for farmers like Luke and Catarina — those who nurture the land, care for their animals and bring nourishing food to our tables.