How long have you been a member of NOFA-NH? Since 2003, 15 years!

 

Why did you become a member of NOFA-NH? I wanted to support and grow the movement in NH and I  loved the Natural Farmer publication so that was a nice bonus!

 

How has NOFA-NH impacted your business? I've found information I've learned at NOFA conferences and workshops by other growers valuable for inspiration and ideas. I've found Farm tours to be helpful as well. We had a farm tour at our farm one summer. Articles in the Natural Farmer have also been helpful. The newsletter has come a long way and is a great resource for events, what's  going on in the organic farming community and relevant policies.

 

What's your number one priority for NOFA-NH this year? One hurdle I'd love to see NOFA NH work on is how to make sustainable farming sustainable for farmers and those working on farms. After almost 20 years of farming and growing the business, I have found that it feeds my soul and the souls of those who work here but it is a labor of love and not sustainable financially. You have to work really hard and long hours for little pay which was fine before having a family but not sustainable in the long run. We're farming about 10 acres and struggle to make it work financially. It's hard to compete with large farms.

 

I also saw a lot of growth in the local food movement as the farm grew over the years, but with that came an increase in farms. I think the interest has to continue to grow with the amount of farmers trying to make a living. So working on outreach is important, too.

 

What advice do you have for anyone thinking about becoming a NOFA-NH member? By joining you help support and grow the organic farming movement in NH. You receive the Natural Farmer publication - a great read. 

 

Does your business have any upcoming events you'd like to share with the community? We have prorated spring shares for pick up at the farm on Thursdays through the end of May available.  We also have summer shares delivered to your door or $60 off if you pick up at the farm available.

 

We have 3 paid part time and full-time positions open for the 2018 season. We value employees who want to grow with us over time and offer long-term employment for the right candidates. We also have work shares and delivery shares available as an opportunity to work or deliver baskets in exchange for your share.  To find out more about us and how to purchase a share visit www.Traciesfarm.com .