$6,000 — Truffle Project

The 2012 WNC AgOptions grant is assisting the Wavras in phase II of their truffle project, which started in 2011. They will plant additional filbert and oak trees as well as purchase and train a dog specific for sniffing out underground truffles. They are establishing Black Perigord Truffles and possibly Burgundy Truffles.

The truffle operation fits nicely with the Wavra's Christmas tree operation, as truffles are harvested in January and February during a slow time in the tree industry. They expect to produce 35 pounds or truffles per acre and would gross from $500 to $1,000 per pound. In one year, the Wavras can make what they made with trees in eight years. They plan to market to nearby seasonal towns (Highlands, Cashiers, Lake Toxaway), as well as establish markets in nearby cities.

The Wavras have managed a Choose and Cut Fraser Fir Christmas Tree operation since 1993. They have also experimented with pumpkins, gourds, mums, chickens, eggs and shiitake mushrooms.

See www.tylynplantation.com.