Farmer Karl & Rita's Story
Their journey to farming in Ogden
WELCOME TO FAIRCREST FARMS
An Urban Regenerative Farm in Ogden, Utah
Faircrest Farms is a vibrant urban regenerative farm located in the heart of Weber County, dedicated to growing fresh, locally produced vegetables and fruits. You’ll find the fruits of our labor at our farm and local restaurants and markets in Ogden area.
At Faircrest Farms, every season—except for the depths of winter—brings new life and new opportunities to get your hands in the soil. Rooted in a deep commitment to health, food sovereignty, and environmental stewardship, Faircrest Farms cultivates more than produce—we cultivate connection with our permaculture classes, mentorship, and hands-on workshops that empower individuals to live more sustainably and in harmony with the natural world.
We’re a small, close-knit operation, and we like to say we’re more of a farmily than just a farm.
Founded in 2022 by Farmer Karl and Rita, Faircrest Farms is inspired by generations of agricultural heritage. Modeled after the farm of Karl’s grandfather, Robert “Pappy” Ebeling, in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, Faircrest carries forward a legacy of resilience, reverence for the land, and community care.
At Faircrest, we grow and create nature-inspired products and experiences, all while nurturing a healthier, more connected future. Whether you're enjoying our produce or joining one of our workshops, we invite you to come dance with nature—right here in Ogden.
MEET KARL AND RITA
FARMER KARL
Farmer Karl’s love for growing began in his youth on his grandfather’s Pennsylvania farm, Faircrest Farm, and was inspired by early exposure to the Rodale Institute and Organic Gardening magazines. His path deepened with a 14-day Permaculture Design Course and hands-on experience as an assistant farmer at Wasatch Community Gardens' Green Phoenix Farm. He continues to expand his knowledge through collaboration, reading, and practical learning.
At the heart of Karl’s work is The Declaration of Common Ground, a unifying vision for community-based farming to address global social and environmental challenges.
RITA
Rita Ebeling is an experienced educator and dedicated permaculturalist with a passion for sustainable living.
Her teaching career spans diverse settings, including schools centered on restorative practices. In 2020, she and her husband Karl completed a Permaculture Design Course, sparking a new path that blended her science background with her desire to create positive change for both people and the planet.
Among her many roles, her most cherished has been as a mother of five and a joyful grandmother.
Beyond farming, Karl and Rita are co-founders of Eden Streets, a nonprofit establishing farms with social missions that provide transitional employment for marginalized individuals. Their initiative, Grow Ogden, helps empower the local community by offering job training, connection, and hope through farming.
Through Faircrest Farms, they offer more than just fresh produce—inviting the community to participate in permaculture classes, mentoring, workshops, and a shared vision for a healthier, more connected future.
