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Genesis Growers: Farmer Vicki Westerhoff
 1. Where is your farm located and how long have you been farming there?
I am located at 8373 E 3000 S Rd., St. Anne, Illinois, 60964. That is approximately 65 miles south of Chicago. The land has been in the family for over 40 years, but I began farming it 9 years ago.
2. When did you start farming? What motivates you to farm organically?
I began farming 9 years ago as a result of an illness that caused me to want to grow organic crops. I healed myself and in the process found the land had suffered as a result of traditional agriculture. The two things prompted me to take over the farming of the whole acreage orgaincally in order to heal the land.
3. How many months a year do you farm?
I try to farm year round (in hoop houses in the winter), but work outdoors for about 8 months a year.
4. How many crops do you grow, and which ones are you especially proud of?
I grow a whole plethora of vegetables, trying to emulate what our forebears would have grown to support their families for a whole year. I am proud of everything I grow. I do especially love the lettuces and the melons, both of which are so very tasty.
5. What is one benefit and one challenge of organic farming and selling products locally?
One benefit: I get to know my customers which develops a vital link between the farmer, the food and the consumer. There is such great joy in knowing the people who eat our food. Challenge: Farming organically is hard work. I always lose at least one crop a year to disease or insects. I suppose keeping a cheerful attitude when something I have poured myself into dies is the hardest part.
6. How do you view your relationship to CSA customers?
I love them. They are so vitally important to me and to the farm. My motto is: "I do what I do because of you." I think that says it rather succinctly.
7. What is one thing you would like Tuv Ha'Aretz members to know about your farm?
I farm because of them and my other CSA customers. They are the back bone of the farm. With CSA members I am able to tell them weekly what is occurring on the farm. In turn, they encourage me, sypathize with me and share their delights with me. It is a wonderful family feeling. |
