Stephen D. Reamer's Page

How are you currently involved in the Transition?

I am not but would like to be. I am looking at finding better methods to winnow my seeds and would like to buile a fanning mill.

In what ways do you identify with the Transition movement? Why are you interested?

I have been saving seeds for years. I paid my way through college selling vegetables at a roadside stand and grew up on a farm (~800 acres) growing potatoes, grains, dry beans, and string beans. We still operate a winnowing and packaging plant but am now concentrating on a CSA and donating up to 50% to the local food pantry and kitchen.

Do you have particular interests, skills, talents or resources you would like to bring to Transition Whatcom?

I am a graduate engineer with multiple advanced degrees and own several mfg. companies with complete metal and wood fabrication shops. I am restoring vintage farm equipment like the old 'iron age' potato planter and have a vintage potato digger that is almost fully restored. Am also working on an old single row cabbage planter that will be ready next year. I am working on designing specialized farm equipment for the hobby farm community.

In what neighborhood or part of the county do you reside?

I live in New York State, halfway between Rochester and Buffalo.

Where did you hear about Transition Whatcom and how did you find our community network website?

I was looking for information on fanning mills after speaking with my Dad who got real excited with the prospect of me making one (he is 97 and a retired farmer and tool and die maker) and other implements.

Please note that you do not have to answer all of the above questions in order to join, and you can always come back later to edit your profile. If it's all too many questions for now, please provide a short answer below on why you'd like to join this site (or a summary of the above, if answered).

I want to build a fanning mill and other small scale planting and harvesting equipment.