the audacity of milling
The idea for Maine Grains was conceived in 2007 when Amber Lambke helped organize the Kneading Conference – a gathering of farmers, millers, bakers, researchers and home bread baking enthusiasts – to revive Maine’s dormant grain economy. The Kneading Conference demonstrated widespread interest in locally grown and processed grains; by 2011 the Conference attracted 225 of people to its event and 2,000 to its Bread Fair and had spawned a Kneading Conference West in Washington state. At Maine Grains, the mill, cleaners, a dehulling machine, packing and weighing equipment are on site; the space is ready for equipment installation; and mechanical systems (heating and plumbing) are in place. Maine Grains needs KickStarter support to purchase and install remaining bins, ductwork, conveyor systems, electrical hook-up and working capital.