Hello Everyone,

We have reached the end of another CSA season.  While all years hold
their own particular challenges for a farmer this one has been
especially difficult. Most of the other farmers that I have had a
chance to talk with agree that 2009 was the worst growing season they
can remember. The loss of the tomatoes was particularly heartbreaking
as so much work goes into their production. Still, one of the
requisites for being a farmer is being an eternal optimist; believing
that next year the weather will be better, maybe even that perfect
year with just enough rain and sun and no hurricanes or hailstorms! It
could happen…someday!

While many of this season’s calamities were beyond my control there
are things that I know must be done differently. Making sure that the
melons are inside fencing to protect them from the deer, and working
on a better trellis system and an organic spray program to control
diseases in the tomatoes, are two examples. One of the principal
reasons I choose to continue in this challenging profession is that I
believe it is the best way I can contribute in the struggle to
mitigate climate change and create a sustainable future. It is ironic
that the increasingly erratic and unpredictable weather make it more
difficult to succeed in this crucial endeavor. Still, it’s clear they
we won’t be able to reverse the process of global warming any time
soon, and so we will need adapt to and persevere through each new
twist that nature sends our way.

It is also clear that I would not be able to persist and persevere in
this battle without the CSA program and the support of the members.
I’d like to thank the many dedicated coordinators and volunteers that
make the program possible. The encouragement, support and patience
that I have received allow me to do what I love- to farm. And of
course thanks to all of you, whose financial support and trust in me
is equally indispensable. I wish you a happy and healthy winter season
and look forward to serving you next year.

The share for this week will be: Broccoli, Romaine lettuce, parsnips,
celery root, yellow onions, carnival or acorn squash, white potatoes,
choice of 2 greens from the following list- arugula, broccoli raab,
mustard green, tatsoi, escarole, endive, or green leaf lettuce, baby
bok choy,  and choice of an herb.

Enjoy!
Farmer John