In an effort to save a historic farm for a new generation, Toyota has presented Legacy Land Conservancy with a $20,000 grant to go towards completing the outstanding funding for the Frederick Farm project.

Michael and Hope Vestergaard

photo courtesy of Legacy Land Conservancy

The old Frederick Farm on Wagner Road near Ellsworth has been a productive family farm for generations. Long-time Lodi Township supervisor and farmer Erwin Frederick left the farm to his heirs. The heirs’ lives took different directions, though, and they weren't planning to farm the land.

Meanwhile, husband and wife Michael and Hope Vestergaard searched for the right local farm. The highly visible Frederick Farm is ideal for the Vestergaards' plans for a sustainable farm that serves the community as a demonstration site.

Thanks to the Ann Arbor Greenbelt program, Lodi Township and Legacy Land Conservancy, the Vestergaards' dream has become a reality while the Frederick family knows their family legacy will be honored. All three groups, aided by the Frederick heirs have been able to protect this highly visible farm parcel. With the support of Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing, 100 acres of prime farmland has been protected and will provide local food to the Ann Arbor area community.

• E-mail items for People, Achievements and Paparazzi to business@annarbor.com. Sign up for the weekly Business Review email newsletter here.