One Straw Farm LLC

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One Straw Farm LLC, established in 1983, is a certified organic vegetable and flower farm in northern Baltimore County. Led by Joan Norman, this 100% woman-owned business has been operating for 41 years, employing 17 people. The farm provides produce through CSA programs, farmers markets, and local restaurants. One Straw Farm is committed to creating a strong connection between families and the food they eat, focusing on delivering the best possible organic produce. The company takes pride in its ability to adapt to weather challenges and customer needs, while also embracing technology and social media to keep customers informed about farm activities.

What does it mean to you to be a women-owned business?

A woman owned business means paving the way for other women, challenging industry norms, and creating opportunities for more diverse leadership. Women are resilient, determined, focused and flexible. It means showing that women can lead in farming, an industry that’s not always associated with female leadership, while balancing personal, family and community responsibilities.

What challenges have you faced as a women-owned business?

Knowing our limitations and capitalizing on those to create a strong business model. It is incredibly challenging to manage a farm where so much depends on the weather. Having that adaptability is essential to the success of our year and feeding our families. Listening to our customers, following their needs and concerns and knowing what we can accomplish. Technology helps, but knowing what technology we need can be a challenge.

How do you support women in your business and community?

The markets are a fantastic network to be a part of, especially when sharing practical tips and resources like reliable suppliers and stand setups. The markets provide the opportunity to visit with other vendors and share information. Many small businesses start at a market before investing in a brick-and-mortar store. Collaborating when possible, to support both businesses is incredibly rewarding.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's In the Lead: Best Women-Owned Businesses in Maryland list for 2024. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at thedailyrecord.com.