Lewis Installs the Queen Bee

We will be feeding the bees sugar water for the next few months to help them get started in their new home, but next spring they might be feeding us - some honey! Come out to the Farm and watch these girls at work.

Sandy Smith Nonini, an anthropology professor at UNC, is teaching a class this spring called "Creating a Sustainable Agriculture." The focus of study is local food systems, something we're all pumped-up about around here. As a service-learning course, Chestnut Ridge was fortunate to receive two student volunteers to engage at The Community Farm. We've enjoyed getting to know Justin and Sarah, and not just for their prowess with a shovel. Following is what their time at Chestnut Ridge has been like...

Chestnut Ridge community, extend a warm welcome to our newest team member: Chris Burtner!

Chris joins us as our full-time gardener and educator at The Community Farm. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in community farming, having started the successful Covenant Community Garden at Fuquay Varina United Methodist Church. Her love of God and the church, knowledge about sustainbable farming practices, and experience teaching persons of all ages make her a tremendous asset to the growing ministry here.

Chris is married to Paul Burtner and they have two wonderful daughters, Amy (9) and Sarah (6). Their family will relocate to the Efland area at the end of the current school year.

Please extend a warm Chestnut Ridge welcome when you meet Chris and her family...we look forward to all the good work, good food, and good friendships her ministry will bring to The Community Farm!

The Community Farm at Chestnut Ridge is putting down roots! Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center is partnering with local rural churches, our traditional base of summer campers and retreat visitors, and new partners from around North Carolina and the country to develop The Community Farm at Chestnut Ridge.