Regenerative Farming and Supporting Future Farmers with Nathan Vannette, Growing Green Family Farms
From American Family Farmer by Doug Stephan
April 15, 2026 · 20 min
About this episode
Nathan Vannette discusses regenerative farming practices and community support through Growing Green Family Farms.
On this episode of American Family Farmer , host Doug Stephan sits down with Nathan Vannette of Growing Green Family Farms in Anderson, South Carolina, for a conversation that goes beyond what’s on your plate and into the soil itself. Vannette shares how his farm operates on a spray-free, no-till, regenerative model that prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and truly clean food. His philosophy is simple: if it’s safe for a bug to eat, it’s safe for us to eat. That mindset shapes everything from how crops are grown to how pests are managed, relying on natural balance instead of chemicals. The discussion also highlights Growing Green’s role in supporting its local community, supplying fresh produce year-round to restaurants, markets, and CSA members throughout the region. Vannette talks about his involvement with Project Victory Gardens, helping connect retiring military personnel with hands-on farming experience through the SkillBridge program. He also explains why storytelling and education are essential to the future of agriculture, from hosting K-12 farm tours to mentoring college students through horticulture internships. From his early days experimenting in a childhood…
People in this episode
Host: Doug Stephan
Guest: Nathan Vannette
Topics covered
- regenerative farming
- soil health
- biodiversity
- community support
- agricultural education
Keywords
- spray-free
- no-till
- clean food
- Project Victory Gardens
- SkillBridge program
- K-12 farm tours
- horticulture internships
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Regenerative Farming and Supporting Future Farmers
Places: Anderson, South Carolina
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