Business & Tech

Ferndale Farm Gears Up for Spring, Shares Still Available

Resident and horticulturalist Trevor Johnson says 'everything is in motion' for the Ferndale Farm's second year.

The Ferndale Farm, which started last year as an effort by resident and farmer Trevor Johnson along with the city's recreation department, is gearing up for its second year in the city.

The farm is a small, 50 foot by 100 foot plot of land located at Garbutt Park near Eight Mile and Allen Road that grows parsley, brussel sprouts, spinach, cilantro and more.

"Everything is in motion over here," Johnson said Wednesday.

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Following the Community Supported Agriculture model, Johnson offers a certain number of "shares" to the public, which consumers can purchase and in return receive a box of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.

The farm had three shares available this year and there were 1 1/2 shares left. A full share costs $700 and a half-share is $350.

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"That's a bag of produce for the entire season, from May or June to October," he said.

Among the share purchasers this year is Rick Halberg, owner of the .

"Obviously it's going to bring us some local produce and support the community," he said. "I'm trying to get involved in as much of that as possible. We're excited to work with Trevor."

Local Kitchen and Bar should open around Memorial Day, Halberg said.

Johnson said he is very excited to have foods from the farm be on the menu at the new restaurant.

"I feel awesome," he said. "I fully believe that I can give them more than $700 worth of produce and they're going to be very happy with this arangement."

Johnson said he thinks it may be an early farming season this year based on the weather so far.

"We might have some late frost and what-not but that's not going to stop us from getting some early cold crops in," he said.

Anyone interested in purchasing a share or half-share can contact Johnson at john2116@gmail.com or 248-894-4059.

"I look forward to a wonderful season," Johnson said.

Johnson also oversees production at the , which is run by the non-profit group Royal Oak Forward.

The Royal Oak farm operated for two years on the site of the former Lincoln Early Education Center in Royal Oak but is now seeking a new location after that property became unavailable.

The Royal Oak Community Farm has also sold shares to local restaurants, including Café Muse, Inn Season Café and Cacao Tree Café in Royal Oak.


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