We’ve listed some of the questions we’re asked frequently. If you have a question that’s not listed below, send us an email and we’ll be happy to answer it.
Q: You say that your products are “Certified Naturally Grown.” What does that mean?
A: CNG (Certified Naturally Grown) farmers do not use any synthetic herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. Khakalaki Farm is dedicated to naturally raising food in a sustainable way without chemicals. Growing ground is fertilized with animal manure that in turn feeds the animals. Any excess produce goes to the animals or is composted for natural fertilizer.
Q: What does “sustainable” mean?
A: The ability to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony. Ideally, this balance will meet the social, economic, and environmental needs of present and future generations. The farm practices energy and water conservation, decreasing waste generation, and permaculture methods.
Q: What is “permaculture”?
A: Originally defined as permanent agriculture, it is a philosophy based on observation and emulation of the many integrated multipurpose systems found in nature. Ethical principles include care of the earth which provides for human needs, and recycling surplus to continue a healthy cycle of life for all. Forest gardens, low till agriculture, natural building, and rainwater catchment are a few of the components of permaculture systems.
Q: Are you certified organic?
A: We are consciously NOT certified organic due to the expense and the bureaucracy involved in this designation. However, we use organic methods as much as possible. We do not use herbicides, or hormones. Antibiotic use is limited to rare life saving situations.
Q: Can we see how our food is grown?
A: Yes! Please do. We endorse transparency, and want you to be discriminating in what you want to eat! We recommend buying local foods and eating those foods in season.
Q: Are your farm animals raised in confinement?
A: We raise our animals as naturally as possible. They have large pens or rotational grazing depending on the time of year. At times they may free roam the property. We use multi-species grazing and animal fertilizer for a sustainable and holistic approach.
Q: If I would like to buy something you do not offer, can you get this for me?
A: Please let us know if you would like to purchase something we do not offer-with enough requests and pre-paid orders we can likely accommodate you!
Q: How long do eggs last?
A: According to a study by Mother Earth News in 1977, fertile chicken eggs will last up to 7 months refrigerated (Click here to see study). We collect our eggs daily and immediately refrigerate them. We typically sell or use them within a week of collection.
Q: How are duck eggs different than chicken eggs?
A: Size (use 1 duck egg where the recipe calls for 2 chicken eggs), richness (larger yolk, whites whip lighter, cholesterol content (higher). Some say duck eggs make loftier and lighter baked goods.
Q: Can I buy whole chickens or ducks?
A: Yes. SC law allows farms to sell a limited amount of whole dressed poultry from the farm or at a local market as a licensed Meat and Poultry Handler. Please inquire if you would like to purchase whole frozen birds. Fresh birds are available periodically.
Q: Is your meat inspected?
A: Any meat other than poultry that is sold to the public must be processed in a commercial facility and SC or federally (USDA) inspected and labeled. You may also purchase a live animal and take it for processing yourself at a lower cost. Please inquire if you would like to purchase goat, lamb/mutton (mature sheep), pork, or another meat such as *beef. We do not currently grow beef. Ordering in advance (with deposit) will allow us to customize your order. Whole processed chickens may be sold at the farm or at a farmers market with a Meat and Poultry Handler’s license.
Q: Why are duck eggs more expensive?
A: Ducks lay certain seasons only, and they lay fewer eggs than chickens.
Q: Do you offer farm tours?
A: Yes. Farm tours can be arranged on request. Please contact us for more information.
Q: How can I buy products?
A:You can check for product avalibility on the Khakakalaki Farm FaceBook page and purchase through the following markets:
Augusta Locally Grown…place orders online between noon on Fridays and 8 PM on Sundays; pickup on Tuesdays (see their website for details…click here)
Woods Market & Garden…products available daily in Aiken: 8 am – 5 pm Monday through Thursday, 8 am – 5 pm Friday and Saturday, 1 pm – 4 pm on Sunday (see their Facebook page for details…click here)
Q: Is the farm available for events or camping?
A: Yes! Please check out our Events link at the bottom of this page, and ask us about having your event here! We have cabins, tent camping spaces, an outdoor shower, a meeting pavilion with a fireplace and modest kitchen, a fire ring with benches, and beautiful lake views!