Crops Today
The Conservancy manages 1-1/2 acres of organically certified fall raspberries, about 200 square feet of organic Blue Hubbard squash, and one or two other fall vegetables. As an organically certified operation, crops are grown according to a plan that governs all aspects of the operation, from soil preparation through planting and harvesting to post-harvest crop handling. Everything — soil treatment, seeds, pest and weed control methods, water sources, erosion control, uses of adjoining land, even the equipment utilized and post-harvest handling — must be tracked and documented for adherence to USDA standards for organic farms.
The farm year begins with review and resubmission of the farm plan to the state's organic certifiers. Weeding begins in early April and continues through July or August. Limited pruning of young canes occurs in April. In May, the previous year's crop of annual rye grass, the "green manure" planted between the rows of canes, is ploughed under, and when the soil is thoroughly warm, a new crop is hand-sown. Monitoring for pests begins in May and continues through August. Rows are pruned as needed to prepare for picking in late summer. In early December, the year's canes are cut down, chopped up, and left to decompose in the beds. In 2010, a small number of raspberry rows will be replanted and a new method of nutrient supplementation, known as nutrient dense agriculture, will be tested on those rows.
The Blue Hubbard squash plants are started indoors in the homes of volunteers and planted in the squash bed after the soil has warmed up, usually around Memorial Day. The squash vines quickly take over the job of discouraging weeds, though until they do some volunteer effort is required. Squash vine borers are always a threat; defeating them requires sharp eyes and vigilance.
Other crops are planted directly in the ground.
The field manager directs operations and ensures that the requirements for organic certification are met. Most of the labor, though, is volunteer. The Conservancy sponsors workdays for those new to the farm and those who like company. These workdays are a great opportunity for families to get outside together and appreciate the cycle of garden life. Old hands who know what needs to be done and appreciate the quiet of the field are welcome anytime. The growing season brings a succession of tasks, and farm work is never done.
The Wright Locke Board places a high priority on recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers. Interested individuals are encouraged to sign up to be notified of volunteer opportunities and to watch the calendar for an official workday.