CSA Countdown - 7 weeks to go!

NEWS FROM THE FARM

We're 7 weeks out to the first week of the CSA season, or at least that's what the calendar says. We still have a big pile of snow sitting in the shady part of our backyard! While our greenhouses have been buzzing with activity since late February, we haven't been able to get out into the fields to prepare the soil for the coming season until yesterday. It was a short window to get things done. The ground had finally defrosted and had dried out enough to get the tractors in for some tillage and mineral spreading. The forecast for the coming week calls for more rain, so we're glad we were able to get something done! As farmers have always said, "Make hay while the sun shines!"

Everyone wants to know if this slow start to spring will set back the season. Our hope is that we can play catch up in the fields over the next few weeks (fingers crossed for sun and warmer temps!) and that things will be back on track by early May. Any perennial crops will be delayed, but luckily we don't rely on many of those for our CSA.

On a personal note, we wanted to tell you that this will be Farmer James' last year with us at the Golden Earthworm. He has purchased a farm in Canterbury, Connecticut where he will continue farming next season. While we are very excited for him and his new enterprise, we will miss him here very much. He has been a wonderful business partner and friend.

I look forward to keeping you updated over the next few months as we approach the start of our season. We have some new features coming to our weekly CSA Newsletters this season and I can't wait to share them with you! - Maggie

CSA MEMBER PROFILE

Introducing a new feature in our newsletter! We'd like to introduce you to some members our CSA farm community.

JULIANE LITTMAN & FAMILY - Port Washington

Juliane has been a long-time member of our CSA, and she and her family have helped us at our Port Washington Farmers' Market over the years.

How many seasons have you been a member of the Golden Earthworm Farm CSA?
9 years
Do you remember what first drew you to it?
Receiving organic vegetables from a local farm with access to the farmer and farm land is almost like growing the vegetables in your own garden.
What have been some of your favorite vegetables in the shares?
My favorite vegetables are the ones that I didn’t know before receiving them in my share. Watermelon radishes are one example. They are the best addition to sandwiches – sweet and crunchy.
How would you describe your cooking style? Has it changed over the years as a member of the CSA?
I always liked to cook, but through the CSA I became more aware of vegetable seasons. I know take that into account even during those long winter months when I don’t receive a CSA share.
What's the one staple ingredient or pantry item you just can't do without?
Nuts, any type, as well as sunflower seeds – love them lightly toasted on my salads.
Do you have a favorite story or experience related to the CSA?
When my daughters were younger they used to say: Why do you have to cook all these greens? Now we are fighting over the leftovers, especially kale, bok choy and swiss chard. They love them all.
What is your favorite part of being a member of our CSA?
Having my fridge filled with fresh greens and my counter covered with tomatoes filling the kitchen with their great scent.

ebApril 7, 2015