Saturday, September 12, 2009

FAQ

What is a CSA?

'CSA' stands for 'Community Supported Agriculture.' In essence, it is a system of agriculture growing in popularity whereby members pay or trade work for shares of the fruits and vegetables produced by a farmer in their local community.

The farmer offers a certain number of shares to the local community; usually limited by the amount of produce the farmer is able to grow. Interested members of the community purchase shares, and in return receive a box of fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits and flowers, once a week, throughout the growing season.

Why choose to be a member of Harvest House Farm (CSA)?

(1) CSA's support their local community. By buying locally produced fresh fruit and veggies you are keeping money circulating in your local economies. Instead of giving your money to huge agribusiness, you are giving money to your friends and neighbors. Local economies become more diverse, robust and stable, and instead of huge plowed acreages, beautiful small garden plots proliferate.

Further, Harvest House Farm has occasional volunteer opportunities on the farm. Relationships are forged in garden tasks, acquaintances made, and piece by piece, communities can be sewn together; the CSA becomes a community center for neighbors and friends. We are a relatively small CSA and enjoy community building events.

Finally, Harvest House Farm serves to many as an outdoor education center. Teaching members and curious others about the age old joys and tribulations of farming and generally working with the land to support one's self.

(2) Healthy Bodies and Healthy Communities. All of the fruits, flowers and veggies produced on the farm are done so without pesticides, fertilizers and/or herbicides thus keeping our land and water safe and healthy for the community. In addition, our sustainable growing methods mean that you the consumer are getting safe and wonderfully fresh produce. Unlike mega-agrobusiness that may ship its fruits and veggies overseas and store it for months, we pick our produce the day of delivery, meaning it's loaded with vitamins and nutrients and has a sweetness and crispness that is simply incomparable to supermarket produce. Join us, and grow healthy bodies and healthy families.

How to be a CSA Member of Harvest House Farm?

Please select 'Become a Member' on the Home Page Menu for more details

How do I get more Information about Harvest House Farm?

Please send an E-mail to Lori at HarvestHouseFarms@gmail.com or call us at 406-763-4464. We look forward to hearing from you

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Previous Farm Projects


Friends, Family and Fun


Hoophouse-greenhouses to prolong the growing season



1/8 acre of vegetable, fruit, flower and root crop beds



A flock of chickens


Windrows/windbreak systems


Vermicomposting Structures (worm-based composting systems)


Canning, drying and root-cellar preservation of farm produce


A small colony of bees

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Being a WWOOFer

WWOOFers welcome! We accept, encourage and enjoy WWOOFers from all regions and backgrounds to join us in our Community Supported Agriculture Project and be a part of the unique culture of wild west Montana. WWOOFing Season typically begins in early June and Continues until early September, though off-season applicants may also be considered. Please see below for more information:


Requirements of WWOOFer: Knowledge and experience in farming and gardening is not required, though of course preferred. A certain amount of independence is desirable and WWOOFers are generally required to work on projects and do farm duties without much supervision (however instruction will be provided). In general, we'd like to make you feel like one of the family and introduce you to our way of life. An honest and friendly demeanor is appreciated.


Visitor Schedule: 6 hours per day, 6 days per week. Working times are generally very flexible and can meet your schedule and/or needs.

Accommodation/Housing: We offer a variety of accommodation setups ranging from the rustic to the comfy-cozy




Food Meals: WWOOFers are generally provided a kitchen space and ingredients to cook for themselves as they please. In addition, some meals (usually dinner) are cooked as a shared effort by those on the farm. Special diets and preferences can be accommodated and respected. Meals can be taken alone or with the family as preferred

Transportation: We are located 10.5 miles outside of the nearest urban area (though some attractions can be found locally). Daily car rides into the city of Bozeman cannot be provided, but can be accommodated on occasion. A bus service does run between the farm and Bozeman. And WWOOFers will have access to bicycles to use respectfully at their leisure. Hitchhiking is generally a feasible option as well

Getting to the Farm: WWOOFers can be picked up at the Bus Station or Airport, or locations within reason. Please see 'Contact/Location' section on home page menu

Projects on the Farm: Please See 'About Farm/Projects' Section on home page menu

Things to See and Do: (1) The farm itself is located in a very picturesque location amidst ranch-land. The Gallatin River is only a 5 minute walk away and offers swimming and tubing for those who will brave the chilly waters.  (2) Located in Gateway, Montana--known as the gateway to the famous Yellowstone National Park--some 80 miles away, the park is accessible by car and, for the adventurous, hitchhiking. (3) The aforementioned city of Bozeman is in close proximity and, as a university town, offers all urban amenities as well as a lively music and bar scene. (4) The cowboy bar 'Stacy's' and the historic Gallatin Gateway Inn are located just down the road; (5) The 3 surrounding mountain ranges offer great opportunities for day and overnight hiking and the chance encounter with wildlife from bears to buffalo; and in the winter skiing. (6) Weekend trips around the state with family and friends are not uncommon