‘Mingle’ with Nature in Surry County

Put down that cellphone and step away from your computer, now! Because field trip opportunities are available year-round at Minglewood Farm & Nature Preserve, a 65-acre experiential learning facility in Westfield.

Minglewood’s mission is to lure people away from the digital world, and it’s focused on sustainable food production and environmental stewardship.

Owners Margie and Bill Imus are now in their fourth year of operating the nonprofit. They farm roughly seven to eight acres, including space for greenhouses and woody ornamentals. An environmental educator helps them align student visits with the curriculums for Surry, Stokes and Forsyth county schools.

In addition to school trips, the farm welcomes groups of adults, such as garden clubs, retirees and church groups. All visits are by appointment; scheduled events require advance registration. They include workshops for adults and children and on-farm suppers on select Saturdays and Sundays. A guest chef prepares a four-course meal, served outdoors.