Linebergers explain changes

Lineberger's Killdeer Farm in Kings Mountain was purchased by Ervin Lineberger from his brother, Harold Lineberger, in 1982. Ervin left a 19-year career in community college teaching and administration to return to his farming roots. Together with wife, Debbie, their six children and eight grandchildren, he has established the farm as a valued presence in the community.

Because of the many years of hardships due to extreme weather conditions and crop losses, the Linebergers tried diversifying their farming operation to bring in additional income. Being full-time farmers, their only source of income is from the crops they grow, and a seasonal business produces a seasonal income.

Some of the things they have tried over the years include: working outside the farm during off-season; making jams and jellies from their own fruit, selling at festivals, county fairs and other special events; growing a variety of vegetables; opening a Christmas Market with gift baskets and other holiday gift items; and providing field trips to area school children during pumpkin season.

The one thing that has proven to be a positive step for the Linebergers is selling crops wholesale through distributors. This began many years ago on a very small scale, delivering tomatoes to Harris-Teeters through their Direct-Store Delivery program.
Now, they are delivering blackberries to Sunnyridge Farms with a five-year contract, and are selling muscadine grapes to Del Monte which distributes to Wal-Mart and many other chains.

Over the past few years, it has become increasingly difficult to continue growing and selling their crops both retail and wholesale. Also, operating the farm market profitably is no longer possible.

Traffic has slowed with high gas prices; having to rely on other growers for vegetables is not profitable or reliable; reselling products on such a small scale makes it difficult to be competitive; and advertising to keep customers driving to a remote location is costly. In addition, all of the six children have careers with a more secure income and, at present, none of them have plans to return to the farm as a career.

In consideration of all these factors ... along with some health issues, the Linebergers have decided to close their retail Farm Market. Their market will close to the public permanently as of July 4.

After that, blackberries and grapes will be the only two crops grown on Killdeer Farm to be sold wholesale only.
In order to clear up rumors that have been floating around, the Linebergers would like to have their customers, friends and acquaintances know the facts ... straight from the horse's (or farmer's) mouth.

They are very appreciative of the community's support over the past 25 years, and hope that their friendships will continue as well as an understanding and respect for the decisions made.