Crystal Spring Farm CSA

Crystal Spring Farm, now comprising 322 acres, is by far the most complex of BTLT's projects. It is an effort both to allow public access to a large parcel of land for recreation and to return much of the property to active and sustainable agricultural use. Public-access walking and cross-country-ski trails have been on the ground on the south half of the farm for several years, and now the restoration of active farming is underway.

In 2004, BTLT, which owns the farm, partnered with Seth Kroeck and his family to manage a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program on the property. The first year was a tremendous success. Seventy-five families joined the CSA in its initial year and from June through October enjoyed a fabulous array of organic seasonal vegetables, flowers, and herbs—fabulous in taste, variety, and freshness! Eggs, milk, and locally produced meats were also available. The goal is to provide for 150 shares in the CSA in 2005 and additional shares as the farm operation continues to develop.

Crystal Spring Community Farm states its mission simply but eloquently: it "strives to grow the highest quality organic vegetables for the Brunswick-Topsham area. Using sustainable methods of agricultural production to preserve and enhance soil quality and protect environmental diversity, our goal is to ensure the long term viability of food production, recreation, and education at the farm." The farm's produce is offered both at the Saturday farmers' market (open May through October from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and through membership in the CSA.

The idea of a CSA is that consumers share both the risks and rewards of farm production. A specific number of shares are sold before the growing season, ensuring that the farmer has capital at the beginning of the year to buy seeds and equipment for a known market of people. If it is a good year, everyone benefits with bountiful, fresh produce. If it is not, the risk is shared. The first year of the Crystal Spring's CSA has demonstrated how committed Seth and his crew are to producing plentiful amounts of nutritious produce for the CSA shareholders. More than 160 varieties of vegetables were planted in 2004, and that number will increase as the farm expands.

BTLT and the CSA are working for the long term. The soils at Crystal Spring are excellent for agriculture. Given a farmer who is committed not just to maintaining but to improving the productivity of the land and a public that appreciates the benefits of fresh, local produce, Crystal Spring Farm is being productively protected.