I first started gardening as a young child, helping my mother tend to our small backyard garden.  As an adult I continued to hone my skills both in the garden and through professional training.

My wife (Becky) and I served as agricultural volunteers for the Peace Corps in Tanzania.  We spent two years living in a remote village working with farmers and gardeners on sustainable agriculture projects.  This experience solidified my love for teaching others how to grow food in more sustainable ways.

After we returned from Africa, we decided to make Leelanau County our home.  We have a 10 acre farm in Maple City with vegetable gardens, berries, fruit trees, chickens and alpacas.

The idea for Leelanau Backyard Harvest first came to us after years of helping friends and family improve their gardens.  I decided that I wanted to use my skills in the garden and passion for teaching others to make a living.

Along with a lifetime of gardening experience, I have received extensive professional training in bio-intensive gardening and permaculture techniques. I am also a certified Master Gardener through the Leelanau County MSU extension service.

I studied environmental science in college, and have worked to incorporate that knowledge to improve the sustainability of my gardening practices.  It’s my goal to use only safe, non-toxic, local (when possible) products and materials in the work I do, and to teach others how to do the same in their gardens.

I look forward to helping you create a bountiful backyard harvest this season!

– Jason Hill