Basu Natural Farms total 42 acres, 10 of which are committed to conservation of natural

resources: indigenous woodland, native plants and many animal and insect species. Another 10

acres are used to produce a variety of vegetables, herbs and native plants, which are sold to

clients who come to the farm, at farmers’ markets, or at auctions. The Basus add value to the

herbs by extracting oils that are useful for skin application, culinary needs, or as soap additives.

Additionally, they can a variety of produce for consumption at home during winter, and they sell

the excess. “The farm includes the Basu Farms Store and the Basu Museum and Cultural Center,

that features 4,000 plus artifacts. “There is no culture without agriculture,” said Pam Basu.

“Their naturally produced commodities are actually organically farmed,” said James Theuri, U of I

Extension agriculture/natural resources educator. “An admixture of crops keeps pest numbers

down, crop rotation reduces disease incidence, and mulching ensures less competition from

weeds. In the fall, a cover crop (mainly annual rye) is planted and then plowed under in spring.

The cover crop facilitates recycling of soil nutrients, and soil erosion is checked. For energy, the

Basus use solar power to supplement other energy sources.”

The tour is hosted by Basu Natural Farms and the Pembroke Farmers Cooperative.

From KANKAKEE: Basu Natural Farm is located at 13643 E 2000 S Rd., Pembroke

Coming from either north or south on I-57 to Kankakee:

· Take exit 312 (Kankakee/Momence exit to IL-17).

· Go east on 17 for about 9 miles to Hopkins Park Road (on your right)

· Cross over railroad tracks. Proceed through 3 curves for about 3 to 4 miles

· Turn left on Florida Ave. (2000 S. Rd.) and travel 1/2 mile to Basu Natural Farms (on your left).

Questions about directions, contact Pam at 815-295-7357

A fee of $20 per person will be charged for each tour, which includes lunch. Registration at least one week in advance

is required. Visit www.extension.uiuc.edu/smallfarm/ to register and for more details about each of the tours, including

a map and agenda. To register by phone, contact Donna Cray at 217-241-4644. For more information, contact

Deborah Cavanaugh-Grant (217-968-5512; cvnghgrn@illinois.edu).