Earlier this week, Keep Henrico Beautiful announced its 2026 lineup of the most sustainable properties in the county, as selected via nominations. The annual contest comprises two categories, one of which awards a singular business for stellar environmental stewardship.

We got the chance to speak with the co-owner of this year's winning, nature-leading biz.

A view at Fleur-de-lis Farm featuring rows of fresh produce planted in the ground with black tarps on the ground's surface; multiple buildings and shelters in the background. — Sustainability and fresh produce take the lead. | Photo via Fleur-de-lis Farms

Sharing the go-green spotlight

The 2026 Clean Business Award winner is Fleur-de-lis Farms, a 16-acre homestead in Varina owned by couple John and Cappie Montgomery and supported by farmer Alex Joins.

The Keep Henrico Beautiful committee credited the farm with a multitude of sustainable practices, but the mission for a fresh lifestyle doesn’t stop there.

Two photos; Left photo features John Montgomery with standing next to and holding up a large head of lettuce; right photo features an individual, partially cropped-out, standing next to five chickens in the grass. — Life on the farm for John. | Photos via Fleur-de-lis Farms

We spoke with farm co-owner John to help get the lay of the land, but it wasn't long into our conversation before he shifted our focus to his wife Cappie.

“The truth is, all credit goes to her. She’s the key to all things we do.”

Sustainability beyond the farm

We’ll follow John’s lead. Outside of helping the farm run smoothly, Cappie found a crucial way to share her love for natural produce and sustainability — Dorey Park Farmers Market (DPFM). Not only is Cappie a manager of the market, but she helped co-found it nine years ago, according to John.

Side Note: You can expect to find Fleur-de-lis Farms at DPFM on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Two images; Left image is packaged honey with Fleur-de-lis Farms branding; Right image is packaged "Mad River Valley" cultured butter with Fleur-de-lis Farms branding. — Fleur-de-lis Farms offers plenty more than just produce. | Photo via Fleur-de-lis Farms

Most recently, Cappie created a new free-food program for DPFM patrons called Little SNAPs. It works in tandem with statewide SNAP benefits and Virginia Fresh Match to add up to $20 in extra spending for families with children.

Given Little SNAPs’ grassroots beginnings, the majority of the program’s funding comes from personal campaigns and fundraisers.John notes Fleur-de-lis Farms’ spring Cajun Crawfish Boil as one of the program’s primary funding events. “We raise about $12,000 through that fundraiser.”

How to support Fleur-de-lis

Aside from finding Fleur-de-lis at DPFM, folks can keep up with the business on social media or reach out via phone or email for the latest seasonal stock updates and pick-up options.
Looking ahead toward next year, the business also offers Farm Share subscription boxes from May through October. Subscription options include weekly or bi-weekly harvests of seasonal vegetables or eggs, available for local pick-up at the farm or a local market.
For Cappie, we can’t forget to throw in DPFM's ongoing volunteer opportunities.