volunteering on a CSA farm in the pinelands of nj at the pinelands preservation alliance headquarters | July 26, 2023 by Meghan Deeley
Rancocas Creek Farm: better than organic, pesticide-free, fresh local fruits + veggies that are grown by community members (including myself) and ft farmers through the practice of regenerative farming - the entire ecosystem working together to produce a bountiful harvest.
I first heard of CSA (community-supported agriculture) when working in Brooklyn back in 2019. I joined the work-share program this year at Rancocas Creek Farm - a CSA in Southampton, NJ on 206. I dedicate one morning a week on the farm in exchange for a share of the harvest.
Each week we show up - never sure what we’re getting into. Some weeks it’s seeding and transplanting, riding on the back of the tractor or truck, hand weeding, or hoeing. Nowadays it’s a lot of harvesting, maintaining irrigation, and of course - continued weeding. The is always work to be done on the farm. It is a joy each week to see folks eagerly come to pick up their produce.
If you are familiar with my health journey over the past two years - you know I suffered an unfortunate concussion that rocked my world - literally. Joining the CSA was a step of faith for me. It required my trust and faith in God to continue healing my body and mind.
I truly believe the challenge of the farm each week has elevated my confidence and has allowed me to tap back into the strength that I was missing.
Time spent outdoors is never wasted - especially when you are a part of cultivating nourishment for your community.
Every night Ryan and I bless the food on our table - thanking God, the land, the farmers, the farm, our garden, etc.
We pray for strength and healing from the inside out so we can stay focused on the things within our control - and release that which does not serve us.
Grateful for new experiences. Grateful to learn, unlearn and relearn.
Of course, I have to end this blog post by saying: no farmers. no food. Encouraging you to support your local farmers! If you're interested in learning more or visiting the farm please feel free to reach out - happy to give you a tour when I am there on Tuesdays!
Be well, Meghan
photography: @lucid.ladybug | all rights reserved.
Comments