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Nancy Bruns Nancy, and her brother, Lewis Payne are partners at J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works. Nancy spent 25 years in the food industry before becoming a salt maker. She enjoys being part of the WV sustainable food system community.
Posts by Nancy
A cup of coffee photographed from the holder's perspective so that their boots and some orange and yellow leaves on the ground are in view.

West Virginia Fall Bucket List

Soon the vibrant colors of autumn will begin to paint the landscape, and West Virginia will become a picturesque destination filled with activities and adventures that celebrate the fall season. Whether you’re a visitor planning your first trip or a proud West Virginian, there’s always a new adventure waiting to be explored! Our fall bucket […]

The Secret to Staying Hydrated: The Role of Minerals and Salt

  Staying hydrated is often simplified to just drinking enough water. While this is fundamentally true, there’s a more nuanced approach to optimal hydration that involves maintaining a balance of salt, which has health benefits that may surprise you, and other essential minerals. This balance not only keeps us hydrated but also ensures our bodily […]

Electrolyte drinks are a great way to replenish bodily hydration.

DIY Electrolyte Drink: Boost Your Hydration Naturally

Electrolytes are essential to your body! Here is an easy recipe to replenish your electrolytes and hydrate your body on hot summer days.

Salt Makers at Work

A Day in the Life of an Artisanal Salt Maker

Join us on a journey through a day in the life of artisanal salt makers, where tradition meets technology to create nature’s finest seasoning!

This image shows one of our sun houses for evaporating salt brine.

7 Ways We Practice Sustainability as a Small Business

From eco-friendly packaging to energy-efficient operations, explore the innovative ways we prioritize sustainability as a small business.

Exploring the Unique Characteristics: Celtic Salt vs. JQD Salt

Salt, a globally ubiquitous ingredient and vital mineral. Celtic salt, renowned for quality, taste, and mineral content, prompts frequent comparisons to our own salt. But how do they really compare?

Why Shopping Locally Matters

Shopping locally DOES matter! Here are 8 big reasons why.

9 Salt Benefits You May Not Know About

Did you know salt has a myriad of health benefits? Read to learn more about why salt is an important part of a balanced diet.

Summer Vegetable Frittata

An Italian style breakfast from Appalachia…

Ronni Lundy’s Buttermilk Biscuits

 Ronni Lundy is THE expert of Appalachian cooking. This recipe comes from her book Victuals, and she credits chef Louis Osteen for it….

Vegetable Stir Fry

Don’t feel restricted to the vegetables in this recipe. Stir fries are a great way to use almost any vegetable…

Appalachian Herbed Chicken with Worcestershire Pan Sauce

Brined Appalachian chicken…

Kale Salad with Roasted Winter Squash, Aged Cheddar and Toasted Almonds

Delicious kale salad with season vegetables…

Southern Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

Here’s our take on this low-country classic…

Baby Back Ribs with Black Mocha Stout BBQ Sauce

I want my baby back, baby back, baby back, baby back ribs…