BGF News - January, 2019-Vol. XLI, No.3

BGF News - January, 2019-Vol. XLI, No.3

What’s up on the farm?

Precipitation in the past month: Snow: 29.5"
                                                             Rain: 0.5"

Holy snow, Batman!

This is the snowiest winter since we've been on the farm. We've had 48.5" since November 1st. That is twice our normal annual snowfall! Absolutely crazy, and there is still plenty of winter left for more snow opportunities. I like snow, but I may have reached my limit of appreciation for the element.

The farm critters aren't all that excited about the weather either. The hens are mostly refusing to come out of the coops, not that I can blame them. The alpacas are hanging out in their shelters, which says a lot coming from animals who originate in the mountains of Peru. The dogs seem to be the least daunted by the weather, though Luci does particularly like her cozy bed in the utility room right now.

While it doesn't feel like spring is anywhere nearby, the signs are beginning to appear. The buds on the fruit trees are swelling (they may be regretting that this week.) The seed orders have all been placed and most have already arrived. Next up are the supply orders that includes things like: potting soil, pots, flats, packaging and CSA boxes. In just a few weeks our winter "lollygagging" will come to an end, as the seed sowing season begins. First up will be onions, leeks, shallots and long-season herbs.

Let's talk some more about those CSA boxes! Now is the time to sign up for the 2019 Summer CSA. Renewal emails have gone out to our veteran members and we will hold spots for them until February 14th, at which time we will open any available spots to new members. If you are a veteran 2018 CSA member and didn't receive a renewal email, please let us know ASAP and we'll get you rolling. We wouldn't want you to miss out on the beautiful bounty of produce that we are planning for this season. If you would like to become a new member of our CSA or have questions, shoot us an email to mail@bluegatefarmfresh. com and we'll get you rolling.

If you can't wait until spring for farm-fresh products, we continue to do our VegEmail deliveries all winter long. Every 2 weeks you can order from our list of available products and we will deliver them to Des Moines, Knoxville or you can pick them up on the farm. Eggs, fresh produce, stewing hens, popcorn and herbs all rotate through our availability list until the start of the farmers market season. If you want to receive the VegEmail announcements, just fill out the form here: Mailing List and be sure to indicate which delivery location you prefer.

Is a weekly newsletter not enough for you and you want to read more about our daily adventures or see pictures of the farm?  Follow us on Facebook at Blue Gate Farm and/or share your recipes, experiences and questions with other BGF members at Blue Gate Farm Community.

That’s about it this week, if you have any questions or comments be sure to let us know. 

Best from the farm,

Jill & Sean (and Luci, Indigo & Sky)