Charles in Charge

I went on vacation last week and somehow the farm survived without me. Just kidding, my three hours a week do not keep the farm afloat! They’ve survived without me thus far (over seventeen years and counting) and probably didn’t even notice my absence last week.

The real person who keeps the show running is Charles. Charles lives in a small house on the farm and oversees all the plowing, planting, fertilizing, weeding and harvesting activities (and more). Many times when I’ve shown up to work, Charles has been on hand to tell me exactly what needs to be done and how to do it. At first I was slightly intimidated, I’ll admit, he knew that I grew up on a plant farm and I was afraid I’d be expected to know more than I do about gardening. However, I quickly got over that feeling as he never displayed an air of superiority and has always spoken with kindness. In fact, I always find myself surprised when Charles starts with “Could you please…” or ends with “that’d be a huge help, thanks.” The way I see it, I’m a lowly work-share holder and he runs the show. I’ve paid good money in order to work on the farm and reap the benefits. It’s my responsibility to do what needs to be done.

But it sure is nice to be kindly asked to complete a certain chore rather than just be told what needs to be done.  Charles is also receptive to new ideas and suggestions, which is why there are now raised beds constructed out of cinderblock in one of the greenhouses this year as well as some beehives on the far side of one of the fields.

I feel the farm has lucked out in securing a leader that not only clearly knows how to run a farm but is also kind and open to new ideas. I, for one, am glad that Charles is in charge.

–Written by Gina Sampaio, a Community Supported Agriculture Share Holder