A growing number of us are starting to take more of an interest in where our food comes from, understanding the importance of ‘food miles’ and maybe even tending to our own vegetable plots.
Local allotments have long waiting lists from budding growers so what do you do if you want to reap the benefits of local fresh veg right now?
Community Harvest Whetstone has the answer. This Community Supported Agriculture scheme, based at Whetstone Pastures Farm, is looking for new crop sharers to join and share in its bountiful harvest throughout the year.
A box of fresh vegetables every week waiting for you and your family at the farm gates – what could be better?
More than just a simple veg box scheme, Community Harvest Whetstone (CHW) began in 2009 as an offshoot of Transition Leicester and was inspired by the Community Supported Agriculture approach, which turns consumers into crop sharers and involves them in all aspects of food farming, sharing the challenges and successes.
There’s also the added bonus of becoming part of a dynamic community of people who meet regularly for social events, contribute to the work in the field and have a say on how the project is run.
Professional growers maintain a small field and two polytunnels at the farm and use some ingenious and eco-friendly methods. Grower and crop sharer Pam Bellinger explains:
“During the recent warm spell, we collected ladybirds from the field in a jar, then let them go on the brassicas to eat the whitefly which had built up. What a fantastic example of a natural, low-tech solution to a horticultural problem!”
CHW spokesman Dani Pattuzzi said:
“This is an excellent opportunity to invest in a local project, producing healthy food, providing employment and helping to revive the community aspect of food production.”
For further information on joining CHW, visit www.community-harvest-whetstone.org.uk, email info@community-harvest-whetstone.org.uk or contact CHW’s treasurer Keith Campbell on 07860 388525.
Why not visit the farm to see for yourself on Wednesdays or Saturdays, when CHW members are on site?
We are also taking part in Open Farm Sunday on 17th June – come along between 10am and 5pm. You can also keep up to date with the project on Twitter (@CHWhetstone) or join its Facebook group.
Associated links
» Community Supported Agriculture
