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John and Irene Hutchinson, now in their 30^th growing season, skillfully blend organic farming methods with careful stewardship of a small area of ungrazed native shrub-grassland. Where there was once a small vineyard, John and Irene have allowed native vegetation to reclaim a portion of their property. They have helped the sage brush shrubs, native grasses, and other native plants re-establish themselves, by fencing the area off from grazing and leaving it free from cultivation. This type of habitat which covers only about 0.06% of BC, is one of Canada’s three most endangered natural ecosystems. It provides essential habitat for mariposa lilies, the rare Nuttall’s cottontail, Brewer’s sparrow, and several species of snake.  The native vegetation on the Rolling Sage property is rich and vibrant, and serves as a vital section of healthy grassland habitat, in contrast to the over-grazed, stressed land on the other side of the fence.

Rolling Sage orchard produces exceptional certified organic fruit. John and Irene have applied their ethic of caring for the land, and their knowledge of it over the decades that they have farmed this property. The result is a very special place. Their hard work, devotion, and love of the land show, in the orchards, in the natural habitat, and in the way that each of them speaks about the place.