This year at Cowan Farm, the Clallam Bay Sekiu Lions and Friends of Hoko River State Park re-established the pioneer orchard.

The Annual Potato Dig on Sunday, Sept. 16, was an opportunity to dedicate the orchard in a formal way. Erik Simpson and Marilyn Couture of the Olympic Orchard Society, and Paul Gleeson, retired archeologist for Olympic National Park, toured the new orchard and informed the group of the history behind the pioneer tree resurgence and the specifics of each tree planted.

They brought a new pioneer tree to replace one that did not grow, a Huntsman Favorite discovered on the Knapp family farm East of Blyn. They made an informative ceremony of digging up the dead tree, analyzing what went wrong, and planting the new tree.

In this the first fall for the re-established fruit orchard, two of the trees now have apples on them. We farmer volunteers are now well advised on next steps for caring for the trees.

Participants watched veteran potato diggers start the process and then worked in teams to dig potatoes for seed, at Cowan Farm, and for their own homes. Groups dug potatoes in two locations, sorted them into types and quality, saved boxes for seed, and then took home potatoes to eat and potatoes to plant.

Many folks also enjoyed picking green beans, digging rutabagas and beets, and cutting chard to eat at home.

As happens throughout the summer, the extra produce is shared at the weekly Seniors luncheon, the local co-op, and in various venues. The Potato Dig is an opportunity for people from local and surrounding areas to enjoy the farm, learn new skills, celebrate the season and assist in the harvest.