After reading about Community Supported Agriculture (see the Locavore entry below this), Nicole and I decided to visit a CSA in Blairstown, NJ. The Community Supported Garden at Genesis Farm was a picturesque 30 minute drive from Mountain Lakes. It has been in operation since 1988.
Most New Jersey farms aren't showing much green this time of year, but fall planting and a hoop greenhouse will bring this kale to shareholder tables this spring. Other early spring veggies are being protected from hard frost by row covers. A list of the vegetables, fruits, grains and herbs that the farm produces can be found on their website, linked above.
We were surprised at the variety of vege-tables offered here at the end of March. This day's share consisted of fresh mesclun mix, swiss chard, rosemary, potatoes (sweet, white, blue & fingerlings), onions, garlic, carrots, parsnips, turnips, celeriac, corn meal, sauerkraut, jerusalem artichoke & winter radish (which we got to taste, YUM!) There were other local products for sale: eggs, honey, bee's wax candles, locally milled flour and maple syrup.
We learned so much about gardening cycles and extending the growing season. It was fun to visit on "pick up" day and the garden was bustling with many friendly folks who were quick with their smiles & offered recipes for some of the unfamiliar vegetables. We were told that many people opt for a small share and coordinate pick up with others in their communities. Other CSAs offer drop-off locations such as Morristown. You can find out about them at Local Harvest.
