An Heirloom Lentil from the Palouse.

Alongside larger commodity crops, Nelson Farms has experimented with specialty crops and direct relationships with food companies when they make agronomic and economic sense. One example is the heirloom Persian lentil grown on the farm and supplied to Rancho Gordo.

That project reflects a larger truth about how Nelson Farms works: it is willing to try unusual things when the field conditions, economics and quality make sense. Growing an heirloom variety in Washington's Palouse is a good example of how tradition, experimentation and commercial agriculture can work together.

These lentils are a reminder that the farm is not only about scale and efficiency. It is also about diversity, curiosity and respectful stewardship of the land that supports different kinds of production.

To purchase the finished product, visit Rancho Gordo and learn more about the heirloom lentil story there.