Well, we’re no longer just operating under Zahradnik’s farm; Buffalo Ridge Orchard, LLC has officially opened for business, as of today (1 November 2012). And what a day it was! It all started off with a new roof for the farmhouse. Then, not to be outdone by the Amish roofing crew, we decided that we’d get the large moveable hoophouse moved over the lettuce, spinach, kale, and leeks. We thought that we had everything under control until just after we started the house in motion – then the skids slid in, causing the supporting tow bar to bend, and eventually crack. So, after lunch we got a few more supports figured out, and eventually got everything covered by this evening. Of course, the roofers were finished installing the new metal roof by about 2:00 (and it looks fabulous, by the way). So now we have both hoophouses moved into their winter positions, the orchard all with new trunk protectors & cleaned up, deer fence strung around to deter those pesky critters, and a fancy new roof for the farmhouse to boot. What a great way to start off!
Tomorrow, just to keep things rolling, we’ll be harvesting produce (lettuce, kale, spinach, collards, fresh herbs, a few more tomatoes, etc.) and getting ready for our first vendor spot in the newly established NewBo Market in Cedar Rapids. We’re hoping that the new market really takes off and will be a real benefit for the community. Make sure to stop out on Saturday mornings in November and December to see us sometime!