As winter ends, it’s time to shift our thoughts to sunnier days. Warm weather concerns. Like, for example, have you thought about which CSA you’re using?
Last year, Park Slope welcomed a new batch of crops when Fishkill Farms came to town. After a successful first season, they’re excited to bring their crops back to the Slope. Josh Morgenthau, general manager at the farm, tells me what sets Fishkill apart.
The most unique aspect of the Fishkill CSA is its extensive variety of produce, especially seen in their fruits.
“We have a lot of new perennial crops, new varieties of apples, a big planting of blackberries and raspberries. We’re excited about our heirloom varieties of apples. It’s these unique varieties you won’t find in a store, and rarely at other markets.”
And though last year’s members “were psyched about the variety,” the diversity isn’t the only perk of Fishkill’s crops.
“All of our berries, and some of our orchard fruit, are grown organically,” Josh says. “The ones we can’t grow organically are eco-certified, which is sort of like the next best thing. It’s the viable option. So not only is it a diverse selection of fruit and vegetables, but it’s fruit that is sustainably grown and environmentally friendly.”
The farm, located in Fishkill about 60 miles north of the city, also specializes in U-Pick events for CSA members. Throughout the season, the farm will host picking festivals for members only, inviting Brooklynites to the farm to pick their own peaches, apples, and berries, among other crops.
“We love having our city members come to visit,” Josh says. “It gives you the opportunity to have a relationship with a local farm.”
Josh is currently in the process of finalizing this year’s pickup location. Last year, the CSA was working with the United Methodist Church and this year he says it will still be in the same vicinity. The farm offers a full farm share, with weekly pick ups for 23 weeks, for $950. The CSA doesn’t offer half shares that are pre-divided or every-other-week options; instead, they allow members to split a full share, and will sometimes be able to help pair up individuals looking to do so.
Applications for 2013 will be available next week. Check in with the farm at their website or on Facebook to sign up.
Photo via Fishkill Farms
