We’re Dave and Sylvia Toftness, farmers/owners of Bull Brook Keep. We started farming over a dozen years ago, after full careers in other fields. We brought our experiences, skills and perspectives to our farm with the goal of welcoming visitors to our pastures. Every year, we look forward to conversing with individuals and families about their food and wellness journeys.
Dave and I bred, raised and direct-market grass-fed-grass-finished beef for years, and appreciated the healthful foods we were able to produce while restoring the soil and managing our cattle humanely. That type of farming provided a rich foundation for our transition to medicinal permaculture: protecting and using the dozens of herbs, weeds, shrubs and trees growing wild across our fields, fence lines, dry ridges and boggy creek banks. Bull Brook Keep is a member of the United Plant Saver’s nationwide Botanical Sanctuary Network.
I (Sylvia) have had a life long interest in growing things. As a kid in New York City, I spent summers at my grandparents’ bungalow (no hot water, no TV), shadowing my grandmother as she gardened. But it wasn’t until I started rotational grazing — moving our cattle from field to field every day — that I really became aware of the large variety of plants that annually emerged, fruited and went to seed as we moved from spring to late fall. The amazing thing is that most of these plants also grow in your own backyard.
Nine years ago, I began focused studies of medicinal plants. Now, I’m deep into a Master Herbalist Program at the Midwest School of Herbal Studies. I am also pursuing a University of Wisconsin Extension Master Naturalist course. I am a member of the American Herbalist Guild, the American Botanical Council, and the North Country Herbalist Guild.
Which ones? Are some better than others for you? Are all safe? Holistic herbalism is about knowing which plants match best with your specific needs and goals, diet and lifestyle. Join me to begin, or expand, your journey into customized wellness. Set your own path.
We look forward to welcoming you for our Herbal Safaris (guided herb walks). I’ll also offer two or more Remedy-Making classes during the season. (Private sessions are also available.) Also be on the lookout for delicious special events.
See the 2025 Calendar for dates, details, and to book your Safari, class, or event.
You can also stream or download any of the many dozen podcasts from my Deep Roots Radio shows produced Saturday mornings, 9:00-9:30AM Central Time, in the studios of WPCA Radio 93/1FM. Enjoy our conversations with farmers and ranchers, cooks and policy makers, lawyers and teachers, scientists and artists, herbalists, and investigative reporters, from all around the country.
Dave Toftness and Sylvia Burgos Toftness
Questions: Contact Sylvia, sylvia@bullbrookkeep.com, 651-238-8525.