Dan's Papers - June 15, 2007 - Join An ECO Farm, Get Fresh Vegetables

Since the early 17th Century, farming has been a way of life for many of the families who first settled the East End. Throughout the years the rich soil has served as a common thread and has helped to tie communities together. Yet with farming becoming more and more remote from the life of an average person today (the farming population consists of just 2% of the American population), the availability of natural, healthy food has become a concern. Fortunately, there has been an increase in Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA), a new idea in farming. CSA has been gaining momentum since its introduction to the United States from Europe in the mid-1980s -- and it is thriving here in the Hamptons.

The concept of CSA originated in Switzerland and Japan in the 1960s. It was in these countries that not only did consumers become interested in safe food, but farmers sought stable markets for their crops. As a result, they joined together in economic partnerships. Essentially, a CSA consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation, which then becomes either legally or spiritually the community's farm, with the growers and consumers sharing the risks and benefits of food production.

Today, CSA farms in the United States number more than 400. Most are located near urban centers in New England, the Mid-Atlantic states and the Great Lakes region, with growing numbers in other areas, including the West Coast. Here on the East End, there are ten CSA farms and like with all CSA farms, there are a few regulations and guidelines that help to shape the practice.

On the North Fork in Jamesport there is Biophilia Organic Farm, which is open for 18 weeks, from June through October. There are 30 share spaces that generate approximately 10-15 lbs of food (this is generally enough food for a family that enjoys cooking). It costs $400 for a share and $250 for a half share. There is also Fred Terry Farms and Edible Petals Farm, both located in Orient. These are small family farms that use certified organic farming methods. In Jamesport there is the 40-acre Golden Earthwork Organic Farm that grows over fifty varieties of fruits, vegetables and flowers. Satur Farms is located on 50 acres in Cutchogue and grows specialty vegetables and herbs surrounded by European wine grapes.

In Riverhead resides the 85-acre Garden of Eve organic farm. This farm not only produces vegetables, flowers and free-range eggs, but also offers educational programs, farm tours, internships and apprenticeships. Just around the corner in Calverton is the Farrm, which grows mixed vegetables, herbs, red currants, raspberries, wine grapes and garlic.

On the South Fork, there are plenty of CSA farms to choose from. In Water Mill, there is the Green Thumb of Water Mill, which grows mixed vegetables, herbs, asparagus, edible flowers and blackberries. In Amagansett, you can find Quail Hill Farm, one of the original CSA farms in the United States. Also, aside from growing organic produce they also have a list of fun and friendly events open to the public throughout the growing season. In East Hampton, EECO (East End Community Organic) Farm is located on over 42 acres of land. EECO farm is an educational, not-for-profit community farm whose mission is to demonstrate and teach sustainable agricultural and gardening practices. A portion of every harvest is donated to some local organization working to feed the hungry. There is also a local beekeeper who maintains eight hives of honeybees on the farm that help to pollinate crops.

On CSA farms, members or shareholders of the farm or garden pledge in advance to cover the anticipated costs of the farm operation and farmers' salaries. In return, they receive shares in the farm's bounty throughout the growing season, as well as satisfaction gained from reconnecting to the land. Although CSAs take many forms and the aforementioned East End farms are unique in their own right, they all have at their center a shared commitment to building a more local and equitable agricultural system.

The growing season is almost upon us and as our world begins to shift and become more "green" and eco-friendly, it is important that we become aware of how and where our food is grown. There are many acres of farmland here in the Hamptons and the fresh, certified organic produce that is generated from them not only upholds the tradition of the East End's long farming history, it also adds depth and character to our community. What better way to support the public than by helping to care for the land and local produce? If you are interested in joining a CSA in your community, please visit www.localharvest.org.