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ORAL HISTORY

Heather Coiner

Little Hat Creek Farm

Heather Coiner is a farmer, wood-fired baker, and champion of the local grain movement based in Roseland, Virginia. Born in Palm Desert, California, in 1978, Heather’s early academic pursuits in plant ecology culminated in a PhD and a growing passion for sustainable agriculture. After transitioning from academia, she found fulfillment in bread-making, launching a bread CSA in Toronto that highlighted the importance of using local ingredients. In 2018, Heather co-founded the Common Grain Alliance (CGA), a mid-Atlantic organization that connects farmers, millers, bakers, and consumers to revitalize food-grade grain production and distribution. Under Heather’s leadership as its first chair, CGA raised awareness about the role of grain in sustainable agriculture, secured key grants for farmer education and consumer outreach, and fostered a thriving community of grain advocates. Her work helped establish a regional grain network that emphasizes soil health, regenerative practices, and market innovation. Today, Heather continues her advocacy through her farm, Little Hat Creek Farm, where she integrates local grains into her baking and champions sustainable practices. She remains a pivotal voice in advancing the local grain economy and inspiring others to see grains as a cornerstone of regenerative agriculture.