Our Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows ushered in its third growing season this spring and welcomed hundreds of volunteers through its gates. As we all continue to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, the Community Farm has served as an inspiring gathering place for community members to enjoy nature, give back and socialize with neighbors (in a safe manner!).
2021 has brought many new additions to the farm, including our first summer intern, several laying hens whose eggs will soon become part of our food donations, two American Guinea Hogs serving as farm ambassadors and agents of soil health and community education, and many new varieties of fruits and vegetables. We are working hard to surpass our goal of donating 35,000 pounds of produce to Loudoun Hunger Relief this year, and as of August, we have donated 30,000 pounds.
Farm Ambassador Maple enjoys snacking on clover while helping improve the soils at the Community Farm. Photo by Hugh Kenny
Pollinator flowers. Photo by Mitchell Pittman
Farm Production Assistant Mitchell Pittman harvests sun gold tomatoes with a volunteer. Photo by Pete Walton
This story appeared in The Piedmont Environmental Council’s member newsletter, The Piedmont View. If you’d like to become a PEC member or renew your membership, please visit pecva.org/join.