Wingbeats Farm
Wingbeats Farm is a small family farm using regenerative, no-till farming practices nestled outside Petaluma. Notable for their biodiverse crops, the farm also prioritizes creating habitat for native fauna and flora. Along with vegetable starts available in the spring and late summer, their flowers are available both as starts for the gardeners and as cut flowers throughout the growing season. They also collaborate with other Farm Trails members such as Jupiter Foods and FEED Cooperative, which carry seasonal offerings from Wingbeats throughout the year. We recently visited with farmer/co-owner Elaine Carlson as she and her farm assistant harvested produce and then delivered to nearby Jupiter Foods, learning more about her background, principles, hopes, and community.
Wingbeats Farm, 3775 Roblar Road, Petaluma; wingbeatsfarm.com
Farm Trails member since 2023
How did you get interested in farming?
Wingbeats Farm grew from a dream planted 37 years ago when we bought a five-acre overgrazed horse ranch in the Petaluma Dairy Belt. We started by planting fruit trees, berries, and a large vegetable garden, aiming to grow, harvest, and preserve a diverse range of produce ripening throughout the year. As our harvests outgrew our own needs, we shared with family, neighbors, colleagues, and local organizations including The Petaluma Kitchen, COTS, the Redwood Empire Food Bank, and Una Vida. These small acts of giving created connections that eventually made our small farm business possible while transforming our land into a thriving ecosystem.
As a biologist, I was drawn to the science and stewardship of farming. In 2015, after retiring from academic science, I decided – with encouragement from family and in collaboration with my husband, Bob, and my brothers, Dave and Mark – to turn our weekend hobby into a small-scale market garden. I took a CAFF farmer business course, enrolled in the SRJC Sustainable Agriculture Program, and joined community farming events to learn and grow into this new chapter.
What do you grow?
We grow a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
Ecological farming offers endless opportunities to learn and observe while working alongside birds, insects, and wildlife. Seeing increases in biodiversity and watching our land flourish is a reward in itself. I also love experimenting – testing new varieties, refining growing methods, improving soil health, and managing compost. Ultimately, the greatest reward is sharing our harvests with our community, bringing nourishment and joy while supporting local food systems.
What do you value about being a Farm Trails member?
Our introduction to Sonoma County agriculture came from a Farm Trails map we picked up at Harmony Farm Supply. Exploring farms and meeting the people behind them defined Sonoma County’s unique beauty for us. Back then, we couldn’t imagine becoming farmers ourselves. Today, it’s an honor to be listed alongside so many incredible local agricultural businesses.
What are your hopes for the future of your business and Sonoma County agriculture?
Ecological farming is hard work, but it offers unmatched food quality, supports native habitats, and preserves natural beauty. I hope our community continues to support local agriculture and businesses, protecting Sonoma County’s sustainability, beauty, and quality of life for all.
What advice would you give to new farmers?
Study, listen, and observe. Sonoma County offers excellent educational opportunities, including SRJC’s Sustainable Agriculture Program, CAFF, California Rare Fruit Growers, UCCE Extension, and more. Attend conferences, join community events, and build relationships with fellow farmers and customers. Most importantly, pay attention to your land and keep good records to help measure and guide your farm’s sustainability and success.
Photos by Lisa Rose / The Farmers Photographer