There is increasing interest in local food, especially when it is grown with great attention to quality and integrity. Because of this interest, more people are familiar with Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) than ever before.

 

The Community Supported Garden (CSG) at Genesis Farm is hosting an Open House on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., rain or shine. This free event will give people an opportunity to understand how a CSA works from the farmers and members at one of the first CSAs in the United States.

 

Included will be a light garden lunch prepared from vegetables, grains, fruit, eggs and flour grown on the CSG farm. There will be hay rides if weather permits, children’s activities, a chance to connect with the land, and an opportunity to join the CSG for its 24^th year, which will begin in the spring 2012.

 

To RSVP people can call 908 362-7486 or respond to csgardeninfo@gmail.com.

 

Every year the CSA grows over a hundred different varieties of vegetables, fruit, herbs, beans, grains and flowers using the healthiest and most sustainable farming practices available. The harvest is distributed to the members. The CSA concept is one way to ensure that local agriculture survives and thrives

 

“I feel that I’m entering a partnership between the land, the farmers and my family” said Lori Gold, one of the CSG’s original members. “This is important to me because the way the soil, the plants and the people are cared for is helping to build a healthier region. I’m so happy to be a part of this project because the CSG is creating a vibrant community and a strong local economy.”

 

Long-time member and now farmer Smadar English said “To me, one of the most important things is that we’re passing on to the children a strong connection to the land and the food. And, our goal has always been to keep this vibrant land in farming for generations to come.”

 

“Each week we take walks, play on the playground, pick flowers, visit with other members and just relax” said shareholder Flora Schubert. “We go home with a basket filled with the best tasting, freshest produce, all of which was grown with such care and love. I can’t think of any other way that I would want my family to spend each Friday afternoon when we come to pick up our share.”

 

“Being a member over the past twenty years has shaped who I am, how I eat, how I teach and how I look at the world” said member Lisa Masi.

 

Besides members from the immediate area, the CSG provides food for satellite groups from many towns including Sparta, Morristown and Caldwell.

 

For more information visit www.csgatgenesisfarm.com .