Last Sunday, a handful of food bloggers traveled about ten miles outside of DC to volunteer at Eco Farms. Eco Farms is a small family owned operation that provides fresh herbs and vegetables to some of DC's best restaurants, including Vidalia, Citronelle, Bistro Bis, Cafe Atlantico, and many more.
Here's Mike Pappas, the farmer behind the operation. He works seven days a week, 365 days a year. It's clear, he loves his work, but it's definitely hard work. He took the time to tell us about biointensive farming.
We weeded around the delicious butter lettuce plants (of course, I had a little taste test!). I planted basil and others planted peppers and beets.
We also took a break to say hello to the farm turtle, who is estimated to be 80 years old.
And here it is, a most unflattering photo of me using the u-bar, a contraption that loosens the dirt and pulls up rich soil. It was kind of fun. (I know, that sounds like something a city slicker would say).
After a day of working on the farm, we sat down for "family meal." It was hard earned.
It was a great day volunteering. Thanks to Laura at the garden variety philosopher, for inviting us and planning the day. EcoFarms needs your help to survive. Get outside. Get dirty. Get to know where your food comes from. Volunteers usually head out every Sunday during the summer months. If you are interested in a day on the farm, please email Laura at [email protected]
Thanks to the bloggers who volunteered their time: the passion fruits, mango and tomato, floridagirlindc, state dinner, and maya's kitchen.
