DELTA - The family behind Mensen Farm knows the meaning of hard work, dedication and giving back to their community.
Susie and Garry Mensen started with a berry patch 25 years ago and have continued to expand their product line and reputation ever since.
Today, they offer an on-farm produce store, a seasonal gift shop, maple syrup and Christmas trees and are a vendor at markets in Gananoque, Kingston and Crosby. More than 500 Fraser and Balsam fir trees are sold each December. The 300-acre farm also produces cash crops, including soya beans.
"It's a wonderful occupation to grow and give back," says Susie, adding they started building their business back when their five children were still at home. Now sons Joshua and Adam and daughter-in-law Madelyn continue to work on the farm, along with a dozen workers at peak season.
"It's local produce grown and harvested by local labour," says Garry, adding they make a point of hiring people from the area. When needed, the entire family helps out.
The family strives to offer a diverse range of produce always with quality in mind. "What I say is if it doesn't taste great, why grow it?" adds Garry.
The family also donates to many local charities throughout the United Counties. This Saturday, October 27th, they are hosting their annual Pumpkin Carving Contest on the farm from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. All of the proceeds go to the Athens and Delta food banks.
Learn more about Mensen Farm by visiting their
Facebook page or send an
email. The farm is located at 161 County Road 42 just outside of Delta.
