Nestled on 100 acres of fertile land in Pembroke, NC, Locklear Farms has been a staple of resilience and community spirit for over two decades evolving to meet the changing needs of their community.

In the early years, Locklear Farms sold produce at various farmers’ markets and stands, hauling crops from one place to another to reach customers. However, the logistics proved challenging; and, over time, they decided to focus solely on their own stand where they could connect more personally with their loyal customers. Now, the farm stand is a trusted resource where over 1000 customers come out each week because they know they can find fresh, locally-grown produce, any time of the year.

Locklear Farms takes pride in being accessible to everyone in the community. Recognizing that many of their neighbors rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the farm stand started accepting Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) payments, making fresh produce available to everyone, regardless of income. This commitment reflects the farm’s mission to not only grow food but also make sure it’s accessible to all.

Locklear Farms plays a unique role in the community’s social fabric, whether it be in offering summer jobs for teens, employment for community members, farm tours for university students and ag educators, or in providing food that brings people together. The farm creates excitement around fresh produce, with customers eager to choose vegetables fresh from the field rather than from a grocery shelf. From Thanksgiving tables to family reunions, their produce is part of cherished moments in the community. There’s a connection to the land, the families, and the heritage of a community that values fresh food, tradition, and resilience.

Written with Ellery Locklear of Locklear Farms. For more information on Locklear Farms visit their farm stand at 9840 Deep Branch Road in Pembroke or email Ellery at locklearellery@yahoo.com.