Northbrook Farm

I've left a big gaping hole in the first posts on this blog. I explained the reasons for the blog, I explained the reasons for wanting to farm, but I haven't said anything about what Jill and I are doing about it.

We spent a lot of time thinking about that, and looking into our options. Most of these options we found through Stewards of Irreplaceable Land (SOIL).  We actually visited eight (8) different farms on three (3) separate weekend trips to the island. We talked to the farmers, checked out their operations and looked at our potential living situation. We learned so much from each visit.  In the end, we were fortunate to be given an apprenticeship at our first choice of farms, Northbrook Farm, in Saanich, BC.

Northbrook Farm is run by Heather Stretch, a lovely woman who's enthusiasm for farming and desire to pass on her knowledge was one of the biggest draws. She grows a wide variety of vegetables on about 1.5 acres, with another acre of berries and a flock of laying hens. There are several greenhouses on her property, which we're both excited about. Seeing the work involved in managing a 160 ft hoop-house greenhouse, will be a big step up from the 6' x 10' wooden framed one I made in my back yard.

A big consideration for us in selecting a farm, was the potential for feeling isolated. Fortunately, there is tons of stuff going on and lots of people buzzing around at Northbrook. Beside Heather's operation, there are a couple of past-apprentices who never left. They work a separate piece of land on her property, and apparently are pretty impressive farmers themselves. Having another young couple who're a few years ahead of us is great.  There's also a cut-flower operation, and her brothers wood-working shop, which our living quarters are attached too.I like to think that my two (2) bee-hives will make a good addition to the already multifaceted farm.

Another plus: Northbrook is one of three (3) member farms in the Saanich Organics, a cooperative of farmers that work together on the marketing and distribution of their food. Saanich Organics sells to restaurants, through a weekly box delivery program and at the Moss St. Market in Victoria. They've got a great business model, which we're really keen to learn more about too.

And finally, the farm practically backs right onto the great big John Dean Provincial Park. It'll be a relief not to have to bike for an hour just to go for a hike.

I'll make sure to put up some pictures when we get there in March, to paint a clearer picture of the farm for y'all.