Legacy Acres at Stearns Brook Farm · Milan, New Hampshire
Rooted in the land.
Grounded in service.
Our farm is veteran- and woman-owned, first-responder-led, and sustained by a family whose connection to this North Country land reaches back seven generations. Homegrown by Heroes is part of that story.
To us, service isn’t a slogan on a sign. It’s part of our family. It shaped Rick’s years in uniform, continues through Erica’s work in emergency medical response, and influences the way we care for our neighbors, animals, fields, and forest today.
Veteran-owned · United States Army
Rick Buteau: a lifetime of showing up
Staff Sergeant Richard Joseph “Rick” Buteau served honorably in the United States Army from October 19, 1984, through June 30, 1998—nearly fourteen years.
Rick was a 91X30 Y2 Mental Health Specialist. His work was often quiet and behind the scenes: supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of fellow soldiers when they needed someone they could trust.
His service included three years in Germany during the closing years of the Cold War and the Gulf War era, followed by service with the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. His awards included the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and other commendations.
At Legacy Acres, Rick brings that same dedication to the everyday work of raising poultry, making and developing Dick’s Rubs, caring for the property, and helping keep a small family farm moving forward.
Homegrown by Heroes · Farmer Veteran Coalition
What does Homegrown by Heroes mean?
Homegrown by Heroes (HBH) is a national program administered by the Farmer Veteran Coalition. Its label helps customers recognize agricultural products produced by eligible military veterans and veteran-owned farming operations.
It is a practical way to connect the people who raise and make agricultural products with the people who buy them—and to recognize the veteran farmers working in communities across the country.
HBH certification and logo use have specific ownership, management, and product requirements. Not every item sold in a farm shop automatically qualifies to carry the mark; the program’s official guidelines explain which products are eligible.
First responder-owned · Serving the North Country
Erica Buteau: service close to home
Erica (Masters) Buteau is a co-owner of Legacy Acres and an Emergency Medical Responder with Milan & Dummer Ambulance. In rural New Hampshire, emergency response is personal. The roads are long, neighbors know one another, and showing up for someone can mean being there on one of the hardest days of their life.
Erica also works as a writer, researcher, and advocate for time spent outdoors. The farm brings these parts of life together: practical work, family traditions, local service, and a deep belief that the forest can offer room to rest and reconnect.
Our respect extends to all the people who answer calls in communities like ours—ambulance crews, firefighters, dispatchers, law enforcement, search-and-rescue volunteers, and those whose service is rarely seen.
Seven generations · One North Country home
The next generation is watching
Legacy Acres isn’t built around one person or one chapter of service. It’s a family effort across generations. Our children and grandchildren help with farm chores, learn where their food comes from, and find their own place in the work of caring for this land.
We want them to inherit more than a piece of property. We want them to know what it feels like to contribute, lend a hand, ask good questions, respect the woods, and look after the people around them.
Veteran-owned
Honoring Rick’s years of military service and the experience he brings to family farming.
First-responder-owned
Recognizing Erica’s work as a North Country Emergency Medical Responder.
Family-rooted
Growing, making, learning, and caring for land that has shaped seven generations.
Want to learn more or get involved?
Resources for veterans and first responders
Service takes many forms. These organizations can help military veterans explore farming and help New Hampshire residents find a path into emergency response.
Farmer Veteran Coalition
Membership, fellowship programs, educational opportunities, and a national network for veterans in agriculture.
Hives for Heroes
Connecting veterans and first responders through beekeeping, mentorship, and community. Supporting those who serve, one hive at a time.
Homegrown by Heroes
Learn how the program recognizes agricultural products produced by eligible veterans and how farms can apply.
NH Fire Academy & EMS
Curious about becoming an Emergency Medical Responder, EMT, or firefighter in New Hampshire?
Where the forest heals and the farm sustains
Thank you for supporting our small farm
Whether you stop at the Farm & Forest Shed, buy a bottle of Dick’s Rubs, or share our story, you’re supporting a family business with deep roots in Milan, New Hampshire.
The Farm & Forest Shed · 1 Masters Way, Milan, NH 03588.