- planting as part of its growing Three Fires culinary brand -
submitted to EFP
As part of its growing line of products associated with its Three Fires Brand, Caldwell First Nation (CFN) is proud to announce the acquisition of five acres of heritage apples and pears to be planted on CFN traditional territory.
This will be one of only few Indigenous orchards in Canada and will allow Caldwell to expand its line of signature food and beverage items that will be for sale under the Three Fires brand, including the Three Fires Wines which will be launched for sale in Fall 2021.
The apples and pears are organic, heritage varieties, which make them resistant to many viruses common in traditional orchards. The orchard will support the continued development of a sustainable food ecosystem for Caldwell and provide not only the opportunity for use at the Three Fires restaurant but also expand the opportunity for Experiential Tourism, preserves, sauces, dressings, and beverages, including hard cider - the fastest growing alcoholic beverage in the market.
“Food security, economic development, and land stewardship are all important priorities of the Nation, as identified in our Community Comprehensive Plan and Economic Development Plan.” CFN Council said in support of the development. “We are committed to food sovereignty and the opportunity to provide agricultural and job opportunities that support land stewardship with the Nation. Our growing Three Fires brand is continuing to be the gold standard in Indigenous culinary and we are proud to keep growing as we work towards bringing our community home.”
The trees will be transplanted in Fall 2021 and Spring 2022, with the first harvest anticipating to be underway in 2024 and full production occurring in 2026.