Regenerative Farm Tour

Please join SSJ on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 9:00 AM for a guided tour of Longleaf Pasture Farm, an 80-acre regenerative farm in North Florida owned and operated by Chris and Deanna Mericle.

The Mericles practice regenerative agriculture—using no chemical fertilizers or herbicides and relying on livestock to naturally restore soil health. More than half of the farm is preserved as a dedicated wildlife habitat.

During the tour, you’ll observe the cattle, hogs, and chickens raised with animal welfare as a top priority. All livestock are fed non-GMO feed and are raised without hormones or antibiotics. The Mericles also grow a variety of vegetables on the farm. Their products are available at farmers markets and select locations in Tallahassee, Live Oak, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, Sanford, Rockledge, and Fort White. Following the tour, guests will have the opportunity to purchase farm products on site (credit cards accepted).

After the tour, we will gather for lunch prepared by the Mericles. Please note that the main dish—a hearty chili—will be meat-based. Guests are asked to bring a side dish to share. A $5 contribution to the Mericles in appreciation of their hospitality is greatly appreciated.
Please be prepared for a good amount of walking and the possibility of cold weather; dress accordingly. Registration is limited to 15 guests, and carpooling from Gainesville will be coordinated.

For questions, please contact David Vaina at david.vaina@gmail.com

Level: Easy
Cost: $5 suggested donation
Bring: Bring a side dish to share for communal lunch.
Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels

**PLEASE RSVP ON THE SIERRA CLUB CAMPFIRE SITE:
https://campfire.sierraclub.org/campfire/ClubEventEntry?id=a4SPo000003u8QzMAI