Next Step Produce is a small family farm in Southern Maryland, 50 miles south of Washington, DC. On 30 arable acres, we steward a four-season farm cultivating diverse grains, dry beans, vegetables, and fruit. Since the inception of Next Step Produce in 2000, our specialties have evolved and continue to do so. One thing remains the same – in our practices, we strive to make a viable, regenerative, and often adventurous contribution towards a local food system. When we were asked “Why grow rice?”, the answer was: “Because we eat rice.”

We invite you to take your next step with us. Read what those who have are saying.

…There is visible labor, intention, and love behind every bunch of greens and bag of vegetables, making you pause to think. Their produce is grown in rich, healthy soil, free of chemicals, and bursting with life. And as I take it in—as it becomes part of my mind, skin, and body—I realize how deeply this has changed the way I view wellness. If I am making the effort to feed myself this well, shouldn’t I be just as mindful of what else I allow into my system—physically, mentally, and emotionally? This food has become more than just nourishment. It’s become a catalyst. A commitment to healthy, living food has invited me to reexamine all aspects of health: how I move, rest, think, and connect with others. That’s the power of food that’s grown with intention—and why I am so grateful for the work of Next Step Produce.

—Georgia Bonney, La Plata, MD

…Next Step Produce is an oasis that doesn’t just grow food but produces life at every level. If it was just taste that would be reason enough, however understanding that our bodies are made of the same elements found in the earth, why do we seek to find nourishment, strength and healing in anything but its plants and roots? Next Step Produce provides abundant options of vegetables, herbs, grains, fruits and more while maintaining the highest ethic of cultivation. To discover Next Step Produce is divine, to become a patron is logic, to join them is success.

—Whitney Valcarcel, La Plata. MD

Y’all’s flour freaking rocks. Makes some of the most flavorful bread I’ve ever had. People think I’m just good at baking bread, but I’m not that good—your flour is the reason they think I’m so good. And I tell them that this is the case. Will be referring anyone who asks for some of my sourdough starter to y’all. You rock. Local heirloom grains forever!!!!

—Emily Ockerman, Washington, DC