Farm Update...

     The Youth Farm Project is off to an unprecedented start this year. We are way ahead (compared to the last two years) in terms of getting plants into the ground, managing weeds, setting up irrigation, expanding acreage and getting ready for an amazing Youth Farm Program for summer 2012. Ann Piombino, the farm manager, and an amazing collection of organizers, interns, youth and adult volunteers have been hard at work to keep this farm alive and growing. Some of these amazing organizers, volunteers, and interns include Dan Flerlage, Katie Church, Joseph Amsili, Leah Grady, Cait Grady, Anna Joyce, Simon Warhaft, Kenny Windstein, Serena Mendola, Emily Belle, Selene Chew, Amanda Wagner, Ben Drinkwater, Natalia Rathbun, Boris Van der Beek, Rane Bullion, Noa Wesley, and many others! A big shout out to all those that helped out before the start of the program! We couldn't have done it without you!

     The Youth Farm Project’s Summer Program began with crew leader training on June 28th where older youth that were familiar with the farm gathered to learn and discuss the summer program structure, their roles as crew leaders, leadership skills, the current status of the farm and more. And then on July 5th all the youth ranging from ages 14-18 will arrive on the farm for their first day on the farm.

     The Youth Farm Project has been contracted to grow the U-Pick garden as well as the U-pick romas for Full Plate members. The Flowers: Zinnias, Calendula, Marigolds, Cosmos, and more have begun flowering. The herbs: basil and parsley are very close to harvesting. And the Nightshades: romas, cherry tomatoes, big beef, heirloom, hot peppers, and the okra are starting to produce their first fruit.

Ways to Contribute:
     Each Saturday from 10am-1pm the Youth Farm Project holds a volunteer work party. So we welcome everyone to come see the farm, help out if they have time on Saturday or stop us and say hi.

     Consider making a tax-deductible donation to support the Youth Farm Project. Your Donation helps to fund kids and farmers, buy seeds, fencing, help fix the tractor, and more, which all helps us to engage our youth as integral members of the local food system and to distribute healthy local food to schools and community centers. Thanks for your interest and support!