It's hard to believe with more than 2 feet of snow on the ground that spring is just a month away! And for all of us at Pennypack Farm & Education Center, that means the 2010 season is nearly upon us too.

As the newly elected president of the board of directors, I am excited about the 2010 season - the fresh produce, seeing old friends and meeting new ones, and the start of new projects that will make the farm an even more dynamic and exciting part of our community.

Back in 2005 when I joined the farm, I joined for the fresh, local food. It didn't occur to me that with my weekly share pick-up I'd also become part of the farm family. Five years later, this community has become an integral part of my family's life. We have made friends, volunteered for countless activities, and grown in our appreciation of the farm and its staff. Amongst other things, I have volunteered as the education director and as a greeter during share pick-ups. Of course, most of you will know my 5-year old daughter, Lily for her enthusiasm as she helps me out during these activities. As I step into this leadership role, I am reminded of just how far the organization has come since its inception. The optimism of the founding members, the tireless work of volunteers, and the incredible talent of the staff have made Pennypack Farm & Education Center a vibrant, successful organization.

Now, as we look ahead, 2010 will predictably bring more changes and challenges as we focus on growing our programs and our infrastructure. This will be an exciting time that will require many people with many different talents. I'd like to invite you to volunteer for one (or more) of our projects. Rest assured, there is something for everyone's interest and skill set. Whether you are a CSA member or a member of our community at large, any time you contribute will help our farm-YOUR farm-grow beyond all expectations.

It is one of my goals to get to know our farm members and supporters, so I welcome your comments and questions. Look for me (and my little blonde helper) at the farm during share pick-ups or email me at president@pennypackfarm.org. 

Kristy Gregory

President, PFEC Board of Directors

Here are some pictures from the big blizzards of this winter.

The big storm of February 5 was a cold nor'easter which produced some amazing snow drifts on the lee side of structures like this hoophouse.  The winds were blowing hard from the east during the entire storm, and the drifts formed on the west end of the greenhouse.  Some ground was actually blown bare of snow, despite an overall fall of more than a foot.

Farm member Jerry Coleman helps to shovel the snow off of greenhouses after the big storm of February 10 - 11.  This storm was much warmer than the February 5 storm and the winds were less, so the 18 inches of snow piled heavily on all the structures.  There was no significant damage thanks to Farm Director Andy Andrews, who spent most of the 36- hour period knocking off the accumulating snow with a push broom.

Have no fear, winter shareholders!  Despite the snow, underneath the protection of the hoophouses are beds of spinach, kale, and chard, planted in the fall, which are just beginning their flush of spring growth in the lengthening days of February.  Get ready for some of the sweetest tasting greens you've ever eaten!  We'll see you on Friday, February 26 at the first winter share distribution of 2010! 

• Have a guest room with access to a bathroom
• Include them in your breakfast and dinner meals (they have lunch at the farm). Some are vegetarians; some cook.
• Anticipate how to handle muddy shoes. We have never had a WWOOFer who smoked.
• Transportation to and from the farm can be facilitated easily from the Mt. Airy, Jenkintown, or Ambler areas by farmers or farm educator.
• Their farm day is 8:00 am to 5:00 pm  Monday - Friday, and sometimes a Saturday Farmer's Market