Ramblin’ Sol Farm is Putting Down Roots in Cream Ridge
Ramblin’ Sol Farm in Cream Ridge is moving to a new home this winter, and farmers/owners Hannah Conner and Joe Soto couldn’t be happier. The move will allow the couple to more than double their 100-member community-supported agriculture (CSA) subscriptions. The new eight-acre site also means room for hosting workshops, farm-to-table brunches, yoga classes, and more.
And then, of course, there is the fact that ownership has its privileges, both in mind-set and practicality. Land access is the greatest barrier for young, female, and minority farmers nationwide and has presented a serious challenge for Hannah and Joe since they began farming in New Jersey. Although they each have over 10 years of organic vegetable farming experience, their previous location wasn’t organic-certified because making that investment was not practical without a long-term lease. Now, as owners, they are already taking steps to certify their new farm.
In the true spirit of CSA, it was Christie Arlotta, a two-year member of Ramblin’ Sole’s program, who offered to sell the new property to the young farming family. When Arlotta’s husband, John, passed away earlier this year, she decided it was time to sell the land where they had grown hay and tended a large garden. She reached out to Hannah and Joe, whose farm was located a short distance away in Cream Ridge.
“I learned a lot about Hannah and Joey each time I would pick up our share,” says Arlotta. “They are truly kindred spirits .... To know that the farm that John loved so very much will continue to be used to grow really nutritious food is an incredible feeling .... I knew it was the right fit when I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.”
“We are so grateful to have this opportunity,” says Hannah. “Our growing practices reflect our purpose to nourish and positively impact our community and this piece of land will give us the foundation to truly fulfill that purpose.”
Ramblin’ Sole Farm is accepting registrations through May for their 2022 CSA season.
RAMBLIN' SOL FARM
79 Arneytown Hornerstown Road, Cream Ridge
732.604.3536
ramblinsolfarm.com
- For more information about CSA programs statewide, visit ediblejersey.ediblecommunities.com/shop/csa-guide-jerseyediblejersey.com
