Meet Your Farmer - Gorman Produce Farm

Dave and Lydia Liker

Dave has been growing sustainable crops and working in sustainable agriculture for nearly 30 years. Having farmed in both southern California and high altitude Colorado, he brings hands-on experience across diverse climates and soil conditions. Driven by a deep commitment to caring for the land, Dave has transformed a wide range of soil types into productive, thriving farmland that has nourished communities for more than two decades.

Lydia brings a passion, creativity, and enthusiasm to Gorman Farms. With over 20 years of experience in animal husbandry and sustainable green-building in the United States, Mexico and England, she plays a vital role in the farm’s day-to-day life.

Together, Dave and Lydia are raising their four children on the farm. Their kids are deeply rooted in farm life, learning firsthand the rhythms of the land and the joy of growing food. From planting to harvest to the dinner table, the family shares a strong connection to where their food comes from.

The Crew

Gorman Farms has a stellar staff of highly talented and motivated individuals. Along side Dave and Lydia, they are creating and providing high quality produce. Gorman Farms is dedicated to its conscientious and diligent staff. The farm is a sum of its parts and we are honored to be working along side such great talent.

Kathryn Underwood: Operations Manager

Growing up with a mini farm in her suburban backyard, Kathryn learned at an early age the fantastic difference in home grown produce versus grocery store bought produce. After a career in cultural resource preservation, Kathryn made the shift to agriculture more than a decade ago. First in produce distribution through a local online start-up and then completing an apprenticeship in Urban Farming. Kathryn is now managing multiple aspects of operations on the farm as well as running the greenhouses. Kathryn is passionate about helping the Gorman staff connect its members with the delicious produce and the whole farm experience.

Ricardo Gomez: Field Production Manager

Ricardo has been managing the field crew and production systems, along side Farmer Dave, since 2010. He maintains Gorman’s high standards of sustainable crop production. Ricardo’s dedication to the farm has helped productivity soar over a short period of time. Ricardo is responsible for all the crop management systems on the farm, from planting up through harvest. We are so fortunate to have Ricardo and his consistent dedication and attention to detail.

One Straw Farm

One Straw Farm is one of the early pioneers of organic vegetable farming in Maryland. As one of the state’s first and largest certified organic vegetable farms, One Straw has long set the standard for quality, consistency, cleanliness, and crop diversity. The farm maintains GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) certification and is fully compliant with the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Today, One Straw Farm supplies a significant portion of the produce offered through the Gorman Farms CSA program. Their experience, attention to detail, and leadership in organic production are a vital part of the quality and abundance our CSA members enjoy.

In 2019, Gorman Farms and One Straw Farm formally joined forces as farming partners, strengthening a long-standing relationship built on shared values and a commitment to remaining viable in an ever – changing climate.

The roots of this partnership go back to 2006, when a visit to One Straw Farm inspired the founding of Gorman Farms. The guidance, generosity, and hands-on advice from One Straw played a substantial role in getting Gorman Farms off the ground in 2008. Many of the farm’s early practices were shaped by proven, real-world strategies learned directly from the One Straw “playbook”. Since then, Gorman Farms has consistently looked to One Straw as both a trusted advisor and a benchmark for excellence in sustainable food production.

Learn more.

James and Spencer Harrison: Blue Gate Honey

James and his son, Spencer, lovingly care for the hives established on Gorman Farms’ two properties. Ensuring healthy, thriving colonies throughout the season.

The role bees play in producing bountiful crops cannot be overstated. These colonies are vital to the farm’s success, providing essential pollination that supports vegetable flowering, fruit set, and overall crop production. In addition to their critical role in feeding our community, the bees also supply the CSA with fresh, local honey harvested right here on the farm.

4 the Girls Farm

Casey Schneider of 4 the Girls Farm believes healthy animals produce better food. Every egg reflects the care and attention given to her farm each day.

4 the Girls Farm mission is to provide our community with a reliable local food source rooted in transparency, animal welfare, and respect for the land – while building something lasting for their children to be part of in the future.