Breaking Ground
All images courtesy of Maribeth Williams
The newly formed Athens Community Farm has been making fast progress.
Cofounded in 2021 by Athens Village residents Sarah Grinberg and Mary Finer, the organization’s mission is to provide fresh, locally-grown produce to people in the Village and Town of Athens, New York.
The community-supported micro-farm is located in the heart of the Village and will grow and distribute fruits, vegetables and herbs. Built and maintained solely by community volunteers, shares of the harvest will be available to anyone who wants them at various pickup stops throughout the Village and accessible at a variety of times and places. Produce will also be made available to local feeding organizations to help support community meals.
“Everyone has been so generous with their time and donations to the project so far. We’ve been able to build 15 garden beds and fills them with good, nutrient-rich soil.
Next up we’ll be building a fence and then it’s time to put in our plants. The goal is to have our first round of vegetables, fruits and herbs in the soil before Memorial Day weekend—and we’re on track!”
— Sarah Grinberg, Athens Community Farm organizer
The Athens Community Farm is located off Third Street, between the Village’s Athens Volunteer Fire Department and the newly erected Department of Public Works building. Former Athens Village Mayor Stephan Bradicich and its Board of Trustees donated the plot of land as one of the outgoing mayor’s final legacies in transition to incoming Village Mayor elect Amy Serrago.
“Once we have abundance to harvest, we'll be making it available at no cost to anyone in the community that wants fresh food. Pick ups can be made directly at the farm along with other sites throughout the community. We'll be working on these locations in the upcoming months and are already look forward to providing regular deliveries to Rivertown Senior Housing.”
— Sarah Grinberg, Athens Community Farm organizer
The farm’s commitment to the Athens community goes beyond just its member individuals; organizers Grinberg and Finer believe utilizing sustainable building and organic growing practices will also benefit the land and local wildlife.
Furthermore, by partnering with other mission-aligned groups and youth programs, the Athens Community Farm hopes to ensure that food options, access points and communication are reaching at-risk and underrepresented community members.
The Athens Community Farm will continue its fundraising campaign to cover ongoing costs of insurance, plants and other materials. Financial contributions can be made via their GoFundMe page.
Questions or volunteer interest can be directed to athenscommunityfarm@gmail.com