Who We are
The Farm
The farm is part of a 98 acre family homestead perched atop the northern ridge of the Helderberg escarpment overlooking the Mohawk Valley. It is a rich mix of fields, woodland, streams and wetlands. Conventionally farmed through the 1960’s, the farm ceased operation as commercial agricultural techniques failed in the heavy soils and large scale farms in the mid-west further decreased profit margins of the northeastern family farm. Ownership transferred several times as fields lay fallow and turned into woodlot. In 2008 we started the process of building a homestead on a portion of the original farm lot. As time has gone on we have worked to establish gardens, planted a small orchard and reclaimed some of the long fallow fields, several of which are now in hay production. Although challenging, the farm’s heavy silt loam soils can be highly productive when sound practices are employed. Regenerative techniques tailored to the farm’s specific setting and soils, have allowed us to work with our landscape not against it.
OUr techniques
Farming on a human scale allows us to be highly dynamic and adaptive, not only from season to season, but also within a growing season. The farm’s main production area consists of permanent raised beds, that once established, are managed as no till. We use organic principles but are not certified. Our focus is on increasing soil fertility, tilth and biodiversity through regenerative practices. These practices in turn dramatically increase the resilience, nutritional value and flavor of our produce. We also employ things like row covers to protect crops from pests instead of spraying pesticides and fabrics mulches to decrease weed pressure to eliminate the need for herbicides. If you are ever interested in a specific practice or have questions on something you see, don't hesitate to ask.
Meet your farmers
Josh: Although he always enjoyed the family garden and being outdoors growing up it wasn't until attending SUNY Binghamton for an Environmental Science degree that a passion for small scale agriculture, forestry and a homesteading lifestyle was sparked. Since that fateful ecological agriculture class in 2001 most of his experience has been self taught. When not working his day job or managing the market garden, he can be found camping , hiking in the farm’s woodlot, or planning something new for the homestead.
Favorite vegetables: Peas, Garlic & Cherry Tomatoes
Chelsea: She tackles most of life's other responsibilities while Josh manages the farm’s production. In addition, she also helps manage the technology side of the show, marketing and deliveries. She is chief sounding board and keeps things in perspective.
Favorite Vegetables: Snap Peas & Lettuce
Colby (Farmer in Training): Technically the older twin, Colby is game for almost anything. He will help with any task, is interested in what is being done and will be there for as long as it takes to see it through to the end. As a natural story teller looking for an audience, he is great at keeping you company while weeding, watering or harvesting.
Favorite vegetables Cucumbers, Carrots and Lettuce.
Reid (Farmer in Training): Taste tester in Chief. His discerning palate knows what it likes regardless of ripeness. He will graze his full body weight in fruits and veggies without hesitation. He is always eager to visit the stand at the end of the day to see what was the best seller. He has a warm heart and a love of animals, which the chickens are not always a fan of.
Favorite vegetables: Peas & Cucumbers
Smokey: The resident Bernadoodle. He provides passive pest deterrence, a dose of comic relief and a big side of distraction.
Favorite Vegetable; Anything in the compost pile gets top billing. In addition, he has taken a liking to perennial landscaping, manure and sticks but will occasionally sneak a pepper or squash to round out his diet.
Farm Tours
Want to know exactly where your favorite veggies come from? Or how we grow 100% of what we sell right here on the farm using organic practices? Come visit us for a farm tour! Email us to schedule a time for you to come visit. No minimum group size or fee. Children welcome too!
