2016 was a challenging but rewarding year! We really appreciate the support of our CSA shareholders; many reached out in person or via email to encourage us through the drought and thank the crew for their hard work. The swap table was often used, and many cooking ideas were exchanged in the tent. Both plastic and paper bag use decreased greatly, reducing the amount of waste produced (thank you!). While we weren't able to interact with shareholders as often as we'd like, crew members were excited to interact with shareholders when possible, whether by being in the tent or via the weekly newsletter. Interacting with such dedicated CSA shareholders was a highlight of this year.
Despite the challenges of the drought and increased pest pressure, many vegetables did quite well. Cucumbers were plentiful, with more than twice as much given this year than in 2015. Lettuce, leafy greens, summer squash, winter squash, and pepper quantities were similar to last year's (and sometimes greater!). Carrots and onions suffered the most from the drought; we were only able to give out a fraction of what we gave last year. We had slightly fewer tomatoes this year than last year, but we were able to give them out over a longer period, with a large number of heirlooms. The Pick-Your-Own crops also did well (with the exception of a failed tomatillo and husk cherry crop). Flowers, cherry tomatoes, herbs, peas, and beans were all available for more weeks this year than the year before, thanks in part to careful planning. The overall value given this year is somewhat less than last year, but still well over the cost of the shares. We hope you enjoyed the vegetables and Pick-Your-Own items we provided. Thank you for your support!
--Erik Baum, Farm Manager
--Sara Rostampour, Assistant Farm Manager
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