Discover the Magic of Our Farm

The opportunity to be the Farm Operations Assistant Manager at Gaia Herbs is the culmination of Kate’s life journey thus far, as her earliest memories are of playing in the dirt in a home garden. Intrigue of living things led her to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences. Kate served as a Peace Corps Volunteer for three years in El Salvador and emerged with a conscience towards the global impact of conventional farming systems, health and nutrition, and cultural sensitivity. Bringing these learnings home, Kate worked as an apprentice on an organic farm and connected the dots from soil health to nutrition, leading her to pursue a Master’s Degree in Nutrition Sciences with a focus on Sustainable Agriculture. At Gaia, Kate combines all facets, from migrant farmworker health and awareness, organic and regenerative agriculture practices, local community relations, and working with fellow Gaians to provide the freshest, purest, quality herbs for the natural wellness of our bodies and world.

Jorge, also known as “George”, manages Gaia's Farm Crew. His roots go back to the start of the farm in 1997 and he’s essential to the successful operation of Gaia Herbs. Jorge assigns farm tasks to the crew to ensure an efficient herb harvest. He also provides grandfatherly advice and support to the crew in times of need. His favorite crops are the Gingko and Hawthorn trees because they remind him of some of his favorite people, like his father, whom he feels could have benefited from the medicine of the trees. He feels good about the products we provide here in hopes that they will help many people. Jorge made the United States his home in 1981, making seasonal farming rounds between North Carolina (vegetables), New York (Christmas decorations) and Florida (oranges) before settling down here in Brevard, N.C. full time. He says, “It feels like home here” where he lives with his wife, Martha, who was born just down the road from the farm. In his free time he likes to take his two grandchildren to the park, on walks in the nearby National Forest. His friendly smile and dedication to Gaia are really appreciated.

Helping us tend to the 30 to 40 crops that represent approximately 25% of our raw materials each year, the workers on our 250-acre western North Carolina farm follow strict Certified Organic standards from seed selection and soil preparation to cultivation and harvesting. Their dedication to our Principles of Purity and furthering the bonds between plants and people is more than a commitment—it’s a passion.