WHETHER YOU dream of owning your own micro-farm or raising cattle on hundreds of acres, the Shelbyville-Bedford Co-op near the Duck River on South Cannon Boulevard has exactly what you’re looking for. Since it first opened in 1956, it has been the one-stop shop for animal feed, fertilizer, plants and seeds, livestock supplements, insect repellants, zero-turn mowers, and welding supplies. It also offers services such as small engine repair and has a wide selection of jewelry, clothing, home decor, unique gifts, hunting supplies, knives, and products from local vendors such as honey. With new inventory arriving almost daily, the Shelbyville-Bedford Co-op has something for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or budget.
“The local farmers in this area started this business to meet their need for supplies and inputs needed to grow their crops and raise their livestock. The business is a cooperative, which means it is owned by the members who do business here — but our business is open to anyone who would like to shop. This business has changed a lot over the years and continues to evolve to meet the needs of our changing customer base,” said General Manager Paul Arnette.
“Our focus and top priority is to serve the needs of our farmers. Whether you are a full-time or part-time farmer, crop farmer, or you raise livestock, we are here to serve you. We can perform soil tests, custom blend fertilizer, and spread it on your field. We also have a sprayer and will help you with weed control in your crops, hay, or pasture. We sell a full line of seed, fertilizer, and chemicals to help you have a great-looking hay field or lawn. No matter what kind of livestock you have, we have the feed, minerals, and vaccines that you need.”
Looking for a pair of durable coveralls, a traditional pair of overalls, jackets, work boots, or a trendy T-shirt to celebrate all things farming, raising chickens, or gardening? The co-op offers brands such as Carhartt, Wrangler, Twisted X, XTRATUF, and Muck Boots. Are you or someone you know getting married or expecting a new addition to your family? Stop by the gift shop and register for their bridal or baby registry, where the co-op also provides complimentary custom gift wrapping.
“We have been a part of this community for almost 70 years. We take pride in supporting our local 4-H and [National FFA Organization] chapters. Our youth is very important to the future of agriculture, and we want to support them any way we can. As this county continues to change, we want to be able to meet the needs of our changing community. New people are moving in, and we want to be your resource with anything lawn, garden, or farm related. We continue to look for ways to change and to adapt,” said Arnette.
This past February, Shelbyville-Bedford Co-op celebrated the second anniversary of merging with the Lincoln County Farmers Co-op to become the Lincoln Bedford Moore Farmers Co-op. The co-op is open daily except on Sundays. Hours are Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. GN
For more information, go to www.lbmfarmerscoop.com.
