![]() A lot can change in a 100 years. For example, in the past century, production across the nation's farmlands has been in decline. Fortunately this is not the case for the Massaro Community Farm, celebrating its 100th year in business. Originally just over 100 acres, the current Massaro Community Farm remains at a modest 57 acres of land which they have constantly had to fight for. After the death of the last Massaro son in 2008, the property was deeded to the Town of Woodbridge, which considered multiple proposals, including turning the land into more athletic fields. But the push to convert the property into an organic vegetable farm and community space prevailed. Thanks to the timing of the growing locavore movement, Massaro found widespread support to renovate the farm, in spite of a national recession. Hundreds of volunteer hours and USDA grant funds went into building renovations, deer fencing, equipment, a greenhouse and more. Farm-based education became a reality as workshops began, allowing people to connect to better understand the local food movement, health, and wellness. While it’s clear that farm-based education was a huge part of why Massaro Farm bonded so closely with its community, their contributions didn’t stop there. The farm commits 10% of weekly harvests go to local hunger relief agencies. In fact, Massaro farms has donated over 33,000 pounds of food since 2010! Massaro Community Farm is proof that small farms can be successful. Executive Director, Caty Poole, says there are three key pillars to survival. "First, stick to your core purpose and do it well; at Massaro, farming sustainably takes the highest priority. Second, core community partnerships are priceless (like AmeriCorps, hunger relief agencies, and the Valley Chamber). Lastly, diversify your revenue stream. The farm sells produce, holds fundraising events, offers farm-based education and rents the farm for special events. These aspects will ensure that Massaro Community Farm will thrive over the next 100 years. -Amanda Stockla, 2016 GVCC Intern |
CategoriesAuthorsGreater Valley Chamber Staff, Interns & Members Archives
November 2023
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