Guide to Pesticides in Produce

To buy organic or not to buy organic…that is the question. The majority of us wants to buy organic produce, but sometimes factors such as cost and lack of product force us to choose otherwise. Fortunately EWG (Environmental Working Group) has taken the guesswork out of what we should always purchase organic and when it’s okay to buy conventionally-grown produce. Based on the testing results for pesticides on produce collected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. F.D.A. between 2000 and 2007, the EWG has developed the Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15 featuring the fruits and vegetables with the highest and lowest pesticide rankings. To learn more about EWG and to download the Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, please visit: www.ewg.org and www.foodnews.org. To learn how this guide was developed, go to: www.foodnews.org/methodology.php.

Worst – Buy these organic                 

 1. Peaches (worst)

 2. Apples                               

 3. Bell Peppers

 4. Celery

 5. Nectarines

 6. Strawberries

 7. Cherries

 8. Kale

 9. Lettuce

10. Grapes (imported)

11. Carrot

12. Pear

                                                                                                                                   

Best – Lowest in Pesticides                                                                

 1. Onions

 2. Avocado

 3. Sweet Corn

 4. Pineapples

 5. Mangos

 6. Asparagus

 7. Sweet Peas

 8. Kiwi

 9. Cabbage

10. Eggplant

11. Papaya

12. Watermelon

13. Broccoli

14. Tomato

15. Sweet Potato

On a personal note, I always soak my fruits and veggies in a hydrogen peroxide bath regardless if they are organic or not. (I learned this from my natural doctor who uses peroxide for just about everything.) The peroxide will not only get rid of pesticides but will kill any parasites (yuck!) living on your produce. Just mix 1 TBSP of hydrogen peroxide per gallon of water and soak for 20-30 minutes then rinse. I usually use a big kettle and dump more than 1 TBSP in there, throw in my assortment of veggies/fruits and soak them for 30 minutes then I rinse them thoroughly, dry them off and place them in the green bags to store. By the way, Debbie Meyer’s Green Bags rock!

 

Buying Guide for Pennsylvania’s Fresh Fruits and Veggies

This guide comes in pretty handy when you want to buy the freshest local fruits and veggies.

Apples:                                     August – October

Asparagus:                               April – June

Beets:                                             June – December

Broccoli (early):                        June – July

Broccoli (late):                           August – November

Brussel Sprouts:                        August – November

Cabbage (early):                       June – August

Cabbage (late):                          September

Carrots:                                          May – September

Cauliflower (early):                   June – July

Cauliflower (late):                     September – November

Celery (early):                            July – August

Celery (late):                               October

Cucumbers:                              July – October

Eggplant:                                   June – October

Grapes:                                      September

Lettuce:                                    May – October

Lima Beans:                              July – October

Mushrooms:                             Year round

Nectarines:                               August – September

Onions:                                      July – August

Peaches:                                   July – September

Pears:                                       August – October

Peas:                                        May – June

Peppers:                                   July – October

Plums:                                       August – September

Potatoes:                                  August – October

Pumpkins:                                September – November

Radishes:                                   May – August

Raspberries:                             July – September

Shell Beans:                              August – October

Snap Beans:                             June – October

Sour Cherries:                          July

Spinach:                                     May, June, September

Strawberries:                            June

Summer Squash:                       June – October

Sweet Cherries:                        June – July

Sweet Corn (early):                  July – September

Sweet Corn (late):                    July – September

Sweet Potatoes:                        August – September

Tomatoes:                                August – October

Turnips:                                    January, February, September – December

Winter Squash:                         September – December

Beef, Pork, Lamb:                    Spring through Fall

Milk, Dairy Products:                Year round

Potted Nursery Plants:              Spring through Fall

Wines, Honeys, Preserves:        Year round

 

REFERENCES:

-Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture: www.agriculture.state.pa.us 

 

2009 Farmers’ Market Guide for Allegheny County

Farmers’ Markets: Buy Fresh, Buy Local

Ever wonder where your food comes from? Try visiting one of the many farmers’ markets in our area and wonder no more! Featuring nutritious, farm-fresh, locally-grown foods, farmers’ markets provide a variety of high quality products, information on how your food is grown as well as the opportunity to meet the farmer that grows your food. Not only do you receive piece of mind knowing where your food comes from, by buying locally you are supporting our local farmers and economy and are helping to reduce the harmful emissions that hurt our environment.

Several vendors offer discounts to seniors and WIC recipients. Be sure to call your local farmers’ market to inquire about these offers. You can also visit www.aging.state.us.pa or contact the local WIC agency for more information and eligibility requirements.  

To learn more about who grows your food and how it’s grown, visit any of the farmers’ markets listed below.

 

Please note: Many markets have an estimated end date that is ultimately determined by the supply of the crops they are selling so please be sure to call ahead to verify times and dates.

 

Allegheny County 

 Bloomfield Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (May 14th – Nov.)

Where: Immaculate Conception School parking lot, Cedarville Street & Friendship Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

Beechview Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (June 18th – Nov.)

Where: St. Catherine of Sienna parking lot, Broadway Avenue and Belasco Street..

 

Carrick Farmers’ Market

When: Wednesday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (May 13^th – Nov.)

Where: Carrick Shopping Center, Brownsville Road & Parkfield Street, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

Coraopolis Farmers’ Market

When: Monday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (Beginning of June to the end of October)

Where: Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis, Broadway & 5^th Avenue, Coraopolis, PA.

 

Dormont Farmers’ Market

When: Monday 3:30 p.m. – 7:0 p.m. (June 15^th – Oct. 26th)

Where: Espy Avenue parking lot, off of Potomac Avenue.

 

Downtown Pittsburgh Farmers’ Market

When: Friday 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (May 15^th – Nov.)

Where: City-County Building, 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

East Liberty Farmers’ Market

When: Monday 3:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m. (May 11^th – Nov.)

Where: Adjacent to police station #5, Penn Circle and Broad Street, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

Farmers at the Firehouse

When: Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (May 9^th – Nov.)

Where: 2216 Penn Avenue, (Strip District) Pittsburgh, PA.

Contact: Megan Cook @ www.slowfoodpgh.com/farmers.html

 

Farmers’ Cooperative Market of East Liberty

When: Saturday 5:00 a.m. – Noon (year round)

Where: 344 North Sheridan Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

 

Forest Hills Farmers’ Market

When: Friday 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (June  – Oct.)

Where: Forest Hills Presbyterian Church (parking lot), 1840 Ardmore Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA.

 

Greentree Farmers’ Market in the Park

When: Thursday 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (May 21st – Oct. 29^th)

Where: Green Tree Park lower parking lot off Greentree Road.

Vendor list: www.greentreeboro.com/vendors.html

 

Market Square Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (June – Oct. 25^th)

Where: Market Square, Downtown Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

Contact: Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership @ 412-566-4190

Website: http://www.downtownpittsburgh.com

 

McKees Rocks Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (July – Oct.)

Where: McKees Rocks Shopping Plaza, McKees Rocks, PA 15136

Contact: Sister Barbara Czyrnik @ 412-771-7623

 

Moon Farmers’ Market

When: Tuesday 3:00 p.m. –6:00 p.m. (July – Oct.)

Where: Moon Park, 1350 Ewing Road, Moon Township, PA

 

Monroeville Lions Farmers’ Market

When: Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (May  – Nov.)

Where: Gateway High School (parking lot), 3000 Gateway Campus Blvd., Monroeville, PA

 

Mt. Lebanon Lions Club Farmers’ Market

When: Wednesday 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (June – mid Oct.)

Where: Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran Church, 975 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon, PA

 

 Mt. Lebanon Partnership Farmers’ Market

When: Saturday 8:00 a.m. – Noon (May – Oct.)

Where: Mt. Lebanon’s central business district, 600-750 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA.

Contact: Carrie Hahn @ 412-531-4485

Website: http://www.mtlebanonpartnership.org/#farmer

 

 

Mt. Washington Farmers’ Market

When: Tuesday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (June– Nov.)

Where: St. Mary of the Mount (parking lot), 403 Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

North Side Farmers’ Market

When: Friday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (May 15^th – Nov.)

Where: Across from the main entrance of Allegheny General Hospital @  East Park, East Ohio Street & Cedar Avenue, (North Side) Pittsburgh, PA.

 

Oakland Farmers’ Market

When: Friday 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (June  – Nov.)

Where: One block off Forbes Avenue, between Atwood Street and Meyran Avenue, (Oakland) Pittsburgh, PA.

Contact: Oakland Business Improvement District @ 412-683-6243

Website: http://www.oaklandbid.org/

 

Original Farmers’ Market

When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Where: Route 50 South Fayette Township, PA 15064 – I-79, take Bridgeville exit and follow the signs.

Contact: Francis Janoski @ 724-899-3438

 

Pine Community Park Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday  3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (June – Sept.)

Where: 230 Pearce Mill Road, Wexford, PA.

 

Plaza Farmers’ Market

When: Tuesday and Friday 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (July – Oct.)

Where: Natrona Heights Plaza, Natrona Heights, PA 15065

 

Pleasant Hills Lions Club Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (May 14^th – Oct. 15^th)

Where: Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, 199 Old Clairton Road, Pleasant Hills, PA 15236

Vendor List: http://www.pleasanthillspa.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=168&Itemid=75

 

Sewickley Farmers’ Market

When: Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (June – Oct.)

Where: St. James Church (parking lot), 200 Walnut Street, Sewickley, PA 15143

Contact: Robert Jancart @ 412-262-4839

 

South Side Farmers’ Market

When: Tuesday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (May 12^th – Nov.)

Where: South 18^th & East Carson Streets, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

South Side Works Farmers’ Market

When: Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (June – Sept.)

Where: 26^th  & Sidney Streets, Pittsburgh, PA.

 

West End Farmers’ Market

When: Thursday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (June 28^th – Nov. 22^nd)

Where: Noblestown Road & Obey Street, Pittsburgh, PA

 

Wilkinsburg Farm Market

When: Monday and Thursday 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (June – Nov.)

Where: Ross Avenue parking lot (free parking after 2:30 p.m.), Wilkinsburg, PA 15221

 

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

It’s spring time in Pittsburgh…finally! Two things come to mind when spring approaches: Spring Cleaning (ugh!) and Community Supported Agriculture. Since I’m not in the mood to discuss cleaning (even though the dustballs are rolling around like tumbleweeds), let’s talk about CSAs. Don’t know what I’m talking about? Well then, allow me to explain.

WHAT IT IS: A Community Supported Agriculture (CSA for short ) is a system that connects local farms with local consumers. Anyone can become a member and support a local farm simply by purchasing a share of the season’s harvest at a fixed price. By paying in advance it will allow the farmer to plant according to the number of shares that have been sold and also to reduce financial risks associated with the costs of seeds and planting crops. Every week (or every other week) throughout the season, CSA members receive a portion (many with included recipes) of that week’s harvest. Most CSAs deliver to several area locations where members can conveniently pick up their share. Choosing a CSA would be based on a location that is convenient for you as well as what type of share you would like and whether you want organic or conventionally grown foods. Visits to the farm are also encouraged as well as volunteering but please be sure to call first.

*I am a little late on posting this info. Please be sure to contact the farm of your choice to ensure shares are still available!*

LOCAL CSA INFO:

 

 

 

Blackberry Meadows Farm

Certified organic since 1992, Blackberry Meadows’ goal is to provide the Pittsburgh region with local, organic and sustainably grown fruits and vegetables throughout the growing season.  They achieve this goal through their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) distribution system, supplying more than 100 subscribers with weekly allotments of produce from the farm.  Additionally, subscribers may purchase eggs, gathered from Free-Range hens, pastured raised broiler chickens, hand-made soaps, local honey, and fresh bread, as well as goods from Frankferd Farms.  All CSA members come to the barn to pick up their produce, enabling them to interact with their farmers and fellow CSA subscribers. With their passions focused towards sustainability, they host workshops and events which they hope will help to introduce, entertain and educate the CSA subscribers.  With subjects ranging from alternative energy, home canning, knitting, and environmental education, the goal is to make this CSA more than a place to just pick up produce, but to provide subscribes with a well rounded farm experience.  Full, half and plus shares for a season of 20 weeks or more (depending on frost!) are available.  For a $10 deposit, you can secure a share for next season!  Please call or email for more information. 

7115 Ridge Road
Natrona Heights, PA 15065
Contact: Jennifer Montgomery @ 814-397-2187 or email: info@blackberrymeadows.com.

Website: http://www.blackberrymeadows.com            

Farming practices: Certified Organic, Organic (non-certified), Pasture raised.

Commodities: Poultry and Eggs, Dried and Edible Flowers, Fresh Herbs, Fruits and Vegetables.

Season: End of May through mid October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick up only.

 

Cherry Valley Organics

 Cherry Valley Organics is a USDA-certified organic farm located in Cherry Valley, Washington County, just 20 miles southwest of downtown Pittsburgh. The farm produces over 400 varieties of flowers, herbs, vegetables, and berries as well as a line of all-organic herbal bath & body products and baked goods. Products are available via produce and flower bouquet subscriptions, as well as at Pittsburgh-area restaurants, cafes, florists, and specialty food stores.

 Cherry Valley Organics offers 3 types of CSA membership: (1) a Produce Box CSA for corporate and institutional accounts, (2) an "A La Carte" CSA for individuals and households and (3) a "Flower Bouquet" CSA (weekly, biweekly or monthly).  Please call or email for more information.

 518 Joffre-Cherry Valley Road

 Burgettstown, PA 15021

 Contact: Jodi or Evan Verbanic @ 724-777-0790 or email: info@cherryvalleyorganics.com

Website: http://cherryvalleyorganics.com

Farming practices: Certified Organic.

Commodities: Berries, Vegetables, Fresh and Dried Herbs, Cut Flowers, Herbal Bath & Body Products, All-Organic Baked Goods.

Season: 20-week core growing season beginning in May, with season extension beginning in March and extending into November.

CSA pick-up locations: Cherry Valley, Crafton, McMurray, Mt. Lebanon, Sewickley, and Washington. Other locations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

 

Dillner Family Farm

 The Dillner Family Farm CSA offers fresh fruits (from Boyer Farms and the farm orchard), berries, flowers, herbs and vegetables as well as Amish baked goods from the Byler Farm. Each share contains 9 to 15 varieties of fruits and vegetables, a harvest calendar and periodic newsletter. Farm Share and Biweekly Shares are available for the 22 week season. Please call or email for more information.
9 Springhouse Lane
Sandy Hill Road
Gibsonia, PA 15044
Contact: Jane or Don Dillner @ 724-444-6594 or email: ddillner@nauticom.net 

 

 

Website: www.dillnerfamilyfarm.com.

Framing practices: Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Low Spray.

Commodities: Flowers and Foliage, Fruit, Hay, Livestock (goats), Row Crops, Small Grain, Soil Products, Vegetables.

Season: June 26^th – Thanksgiving.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pickup (please call first), Wexford, Gibsonia, Mt. Lebanon.

 

Dream Thyme Farm

Dream Thyme Farm CSA offers fresh fruits, vegetables and mushrooms. (Produce is grown organically and fertilized with compost made on the farm.)Extras included are fresh herbs, pastured rainbow-colored eggs and meats including goat meat and lamb. Full and Half shares are available for purchase. Dream Thyme Farm is also setting up a goat dairy expected to be up and running in 2008.

P.O. Box 252
Mercer, PA 16137

Contact: Lynne Gelston @ 724-748-9124 or email: drmthyme@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.dreamthymefarm.com

Farming practices: Free Range, Humanely Raised, Organic (not Certified), Pasture Raised, Wild Harvested.

Commodities: Fruits, Vegetables, Mushrooms, Herbs, Pastured Rainbow-Colored Eggs and Meats (Goat meat, lamb, chicken, duck, geese and turkeys).

Season: May through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up and drop off. Delivery schedule varies. Please call in advance for arrangements.

 

Farm to Table

A 3^rd party CSA service, Farm to Table offers several subscription plans including Standard (Small and Family – 20 weeks), Summer Bounty (10 weeks starting in July), Fall Harvest ( 10 weeks starting in September), Organic Standard (Small and Family – 24 weeks) and Organic Seasonal (Summer Bounty and Fall Harvest – 13 weeks each). Visit the website for more details.

1910 Cochran Road

One Manor Oak, Suite 600

Pittsburgh, PA 15220

Contact: Erin Hagan @ 412-563-7807

Website: https://www.pathwayswellnessprogram.com/Farm_to_Table.html#produce

Farming practices: Several farms: Sustainable, some Organic.

Commodities: Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers, Herbs and Berries.

Season: June to December.

CSA pick-up locations: Beechwood Farms, Manor Oak (South Hills), Moon Township Auto, Phillips Chiropractic (Bethel Park), Oakland, Downtown Pittsburgh, North Hills, East End.

 

Full Circle Farm & CSA

Located in the mountains of Laurel Highlands (Westmoreland County), Full Circle Farm offers an on-farm CSA and farm store. Each share contains about 4 grocery bags worth of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and flowers as well as a newsletter and recipes. Free range eggs are available through a pre-order a week ahead. Please call or email for more information.

1323 Bethel Church Road

Latrobe, PA 15650

Contact: Liz McClunin or Dave Szurszewski @ 724-593-7041 or email: cirquecsa@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.smallfarmsuccess.com/full_circle.cfm

Farming practices: Certified Organic, Biodynamic Farming Principles.

Commodities: Fruits, Berries, Vegetables, Flowers, Honey, Maple Syrup, Eggs, Chicken and Breads.

Season: June through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up only.

 

Goose Creek Gardens, Ltd.

Specializing in salad greens, culinary herbs, cut flowers, potted herbs and vegetable starts, Goose Creek Gardens’ CSA offers an 8 week subscription of spring greens, herbs, spring vegetables, etc. Visit the website to join the mailing list, view ongoing events or to download recipes.

7245 Noblestown Road

Oakdale, PA 15071

Contact: Margie Dagnal by email: goosecreekgardens@msn.com  

Website: http://www.goosecreekgardens.com

Farming practices: Naturally Grown, Certified Naturally Grown.

Commodities: Salad Greens, Culinary Herbs, Flowers and Specialty Vegetables.

Season: April through May.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick up and Mt. Lebanon.

 

Harvest Valley Farms

Harvest Valley Farms’ CSA offers 2 types of CSA programs: Farm pick-up which allows the member to come to the farm and choose a certain amount of produce from a display and City drop-off in which the produce is selected by the farm and placed in a crate for delivery. For more information please call or email.

125 Ida Lane

Valencia, PA 16059

Contact: Art, Larry or David King @ 724-443-5869 or email: kings5@nauticom.net

Website: http://www.harvestvalleyfarms.com

Farming practices: Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Low Spray.

Commodities: Flowers, Fruits, Herbs and Vegetables.

Season: May through November.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up, Squirrel Hill, Highland Park, Aspinwall.

 

Hollyfields

Hollyfields is a sponsored apprenticeship through Sarver’s Hill Farm focusing on growing organic produce and sustaining the local farm market community. Please contact Holly or Paul for more information regarding the CSA program.

Sarver Hills Farm

438 Old State Route 66

Greensburg, PA 15601

Contact: Holly or Paul @ 724-834-2334

Website: http://www.localharvest.org/farms/M17912

Farming practices: Certified Organic.

Commodities: Tomatoes and other seasonal produce for August and September.

Season: August through September.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up.

 

Hunter Farms

Located in Butler County, Hunter Farms specializes in organic blueberries and raspberries. Please contact Richard for more information on the CSA. Visitors are welcome to the farm – be sure to call first.

PO Box 478

Fairview, PA 16415

Contact: Richard Hunter @ 814-449-7524.

Website: http://www.buylocalpa.org/details.php?id=694

Farming practices: Certified Organic.

Commodities: Blueberries and Raspberries.

CSA pick-up locations: Allegheny County.

 

 

Kretschmann Farm CSA

The Kretschmann Farm offers three sizes of CSA shares (Small, Medium and Large), fresh ground shade coffee from Building New Hope as well as the opportunity to purchase winter veggies monthly. Sign up online for the weekly newsletter that includes farm happenings, what to expect in the following weeks and simple recipes.     

257 Zeigler Road

Rochester, PA 15074

Contact: Don or Becky Kretschmann @ 724-452-7189 or email: don@kretschmannfarm.com

Website: http://www.kretschmannfarm.com

Farming practices: Certified Organic.

Commodities: Fruits, Vegetables, Herbs, Cider and Sauerkraut.

Season: June to Thanksgiving.

CSA pick-up locations: Flexible and depends of the number of geographical distribution of subscribers. Please call well in advance. You may also host a drop off site.

 

Schmucker Family Farm, Foods From the Earth CSA

The Schmucker Family Farm offers a wide variety of produce along with baked goods and eggs. Currently the farm is in transition to become Certified Organic. Please write for more information about the farm and the CSA.

6983 Route 58

Emlenton, PA 16373

Contact: Tobie and Joan Schmucker by mail.

Website: Foods From the Earth CSA

Farming practices: Organic (non-certified).

Commodities: Fruits, Vegetables, Baked Goods and Eggs.

Season: Three 12 week seasons – spring, summer and fall.

CSA pick-up locations: Delivery of share boxes at central locations – please write for more details.

 

Mildreds’ Daughters Urban Farm

Mildreds’ Daughters Urban Farm specializes in growing heirloom tomatoes plus a diverse variety of specialty vegetables, flowers, herbs and fruit. Full and half shares are available for a 20 week period. Pick-up is at the farm on Mondays and Thursdays from 4-7pm. Please call to verify.

1100 Normahill Drive

Pittsburgh, PA 15201

Contact: Barb Kline or Randa Shannon @ 412-799-0833 or email: mildredsdaughters@earthlink.net

Website: http://www.localharvest.org/farms/M6753 or http://mildredsdaughters.blogspot.com

Farming practices: Certified Organic, Naturally Grown.

Commodities: Eggs, Flowers, Herbs, Sprouts and Vegetables.

Season: June through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up only.

 

Misty Morning Farm Meat / Poultry CSA

Heritage grass fed beef and free range chicken plus rabbit, goat, lamb and mutton are the main products. Religious and ethnic needs and requirements fully adhered to when possible. Family or Couple shares are available for purchase for the year. Enrollment is open at any time (call for availability) and the calendar year starts at the sign-up point. Please call or email to request an information packet.

1781 Hazlet Church Road

Cherry Tree, PA 15724

Contact: John or Judith Hollway @ 814-743-5959 or email: jjhollway@winbeam.com

Website: http://www.mistymorningfarm.org

Farming practices: Free Range, GMO-Free, Humanely Raised, Organic (non-certified), Pasture Raised.

Commodities: Hay, Beef, Chicken, Geese, Goat, Lamb, Pork, Rabbit, Turkey, Compost, Firewood and Sustainable Wood Products.

Season: Year round.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up for local members. Out-of-state members’ shares are sent overnight air.

 

Nu Way Farm

Nu Way Farm CSA offers weekly half bushel shares of organically grown produce and free range poultry and eggs as well as a weekly newsletter. Central American, fair trade coffee is also available for bulk purchase. Please call or visit the website for more information.

950 Grove Street

Meadville, PA 16335

Contact: Christopher Bakken @ 814-337-2542 or email: bakken@alltel.net Website: http://webpub.allegheny.edu/employee/c/cbakken/meadvillecsa/csapage.htm

Farming practices: Organic (non-certified), Free Range.

Commodities: Produce, Free Range Poultry and Eggs and Flowers.

Season: March through November.

CSA pick-up locations: Meadville and Fredonia, PA.

 

Penns Corner Farm Alliance CSA

PCFA is a farmer cooperative offering fruits, vegetables and other farm products. All farmers practice sustainable farming methods and many grow organically. Be sure to check out the website for CSA information, photos, recipes, news and what to expect in your next delivery. 

P.O. Box 160

Shelocta, PA 15774

Contact: Neil Stauffer @ 412-363-1971 or email: pennscorner@gmail.com

Website: http://www.pennscorner.com 

Farming practices: Sustainable Farming Practices (a few of the growers, though local, use conventional practices).

Commodities: Cheese, Eggs, Fruits, Honey, Pasta, Mushrooms and Vegetables.

Season: April through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Point Breeze, Highland Park, Squirrel Hill, Oakdale, North Side, Lawrenceville, Perrysville, White Hall, Mt. Lebanon and Green Tree.

 

Pure Earth Organic Farm, LLC.

Located in Crawford County, Pure Earth Organic Farm specializes in organically grown garlic, herbs, fruits and vegetables as well as Christmas trees, wild-crafted crops, hay and some ornamentals. The season runs for 14 weeks with pick-up location on-farm in Crawford County. Volunteer and non-volunteer shares are available. Wholesale and special orders are welcome and home delivery is available if you wish to pay for transportation costs. Christmas trees are available by appointment only.

19000 New Richmond Road

Cambridge Springs, PA 16403

Contact: Troy or Sharon Bogdan @ 814-967-4423 or email: tbogdan1@earthlink.net

Website: http://www.pureearthorganic.com or http://www.localharvest.org/farms/M5225 or http://agmap.psu.edu/Businesses/866

Farming practices: Certified Organic, Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Commodities: Flowers, Hay, Fruits, Berries, Herbs, Sunflower Seeds, Vegetables and Specialty Products.

Season: July through November.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up only. Call for an appointment.

 

Reeger’s Farm Market

Reeger’s Farm offers a Market Basket program which consists of one 4 week and three 6 week sessions. Visit the website for CSA information and to sign up for the weekly newsletter.

755 Laurel Road

Shelocta, PA 15774

Contact: Bill Reeger or Mary R. Masterson @ 724-463-0440 or email: reegersfarm@gmail.com

Website: http://www.reegersfarm.com

Farming practices: Sustainable Practice, Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Commodities: Fruits, Vegetables, Honey, Eggs, Flowers, Herbs and Baked Goods.

Season: May through September.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up.

 

Sarver’s Hill Organic Farms and CSA

Full and half shares are available. Call or email for your information packet and application or subscribe online for the upcoming season. PA Farm Market vouchers are accepted.

RR 9 Box 463

Greensburg, PA 15601

Contact: Paul Sarver @ 724-834-2334 or email: psarverfarm@aol.com

Website: http://www.localharvest.org/csadrops.jsp?id=3280

Farming practices: Certified Organic, Grass Fed/Pastured.

Commodities: Eggs, Fruits, Vegetables, Herbs, Seeds and Honey.

Season: May through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up, Murrysville/Monroeville and Plum Boro.

 

Three Sisters Farm

Three Sisters Farm has been growing organic produce from their bioshelter (solar greenhouse) and gardens since 1989 and offer a large variety of organic gourmet produce and herbs. The farm is open Saturday 10am-4pm May through October. Visit the website or call for more information.   

134 Obitz Road

Sandy Lake, PA 16145

Contact: Darrell or Linda Frey @ 724-376-2797 or email: defray@bioshelter.com

Website: http://www.bioshelter.com

Farming practices: Certified Organic.

Commodities: Vegetables, Fruits, Herbs, Eggs and Plants.

Season: June through September.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up and prearranged drop sites.

 

West Liberty Farm

The West Liberty Farm CSA specializes in pastured chicken and turkey. Also available are vegetables, melons and herbs. No pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or genetically modified seeds are used. Full and Half shares are available for a 15 week minimum. Please call or email for more information.

3332 West Liberty Road

DuBois, PA 15801

Contact: David or Amanda Chirico @ 814-371-1033 or email: madchirico@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.localharvest.org/csadrops.jsp?id=5494

Farming practices: Naturally Grown, Grass-Fed, Pasture Raised.

Commodities: Chickens, Turkeys, Vegetables, Fruits and Herbs.

Season: June through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up only.

 

Wil-Den Family Farms CSA and Farm Market

TheWil-Den Family Farms CSA offers Fresh Air Pork and products. Visit the website for family recipes, pricing, drop off locations and where to buy.

195 Limber Road

Jackson Center, PA 16133

Contact: Bill or Denise Brownlee @ 814-786-7438 or email: denise@wildenfamilyfarms.com  

Website: http://www.wildenfamilyfarms.com

Farming practices: Pastured, Free Range.

Commodities: Pork.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up and Lawrence, Butler and Allegheny Counties.

 

Woodcrest Farm

Woodcrest Farm is committed to the production of specialty vegetables and herbs. Full and half shares are available for the 20 week subscription.

2001 Route 119 North

Greensburg, PA 15601

Contact: Karen or Forest Imhoff @ 724-838-7662 or email: woodcrestfarm@earthlink.net

Website: http://www.localharvest.org/farms/M16448

Farming practices: Conventional, Free Range, Humanely Raised, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Organic (non-certified), Pasture Raised.

Commodities: Eggs, Edible Flowers, Fruits, Berries, Herbs, Plants and Vegetables.

Season: June through October.

CSA pick-up locations: Farm pick-up only.

 

I’m still searching for more CSAs and when I find them, I will definitely update the list. If you’re interested in purchasing a share, please contact the farm ASAP!

 

 

 

 

Happy Earth Day!

Hello, everyone! What better day to launch my blog than today, April 22nd, 2009, Earth Day! Or is it Earth week now? Hopefully. It’s a lovely concept and one I strongly encourage for those of us that do not practice environmentally positive actions on a daily basis.

These days, everyone seems to be on the “green” bandwagon and admittedly, so am I. However, in my defense, I started this project over 2 years ago before the “green invasion” took place. (Read my about me page for more info.) I’ve done the research, I’ve made the connections and I’ve spent hundreds of unpaid hours compiling this information just for you. Why? Because Pittsburgh is known as a city of champions, a city of hard working, hard playing citizens that worship their sports teams, their families and their beer! But were you aware that Pittsburgh is also one of the most eco-friendly cities in the U.S.? Neither did I until I started my own quest to do my part to protect our precious Earth. (And believe me, going green isn’t easy!) But for some reason, the fact that Pittsburgh is such an environmentally advanced city remains hidden. Kind of like an underground society…only certain people are knowledgeable and seem to want to keep it on the DL. Well, guess what? I’m letting you all in! Hopefully Pittsburgh will soon be known not only as the City of Champions but also the Greenest City in the country. 

With that being said, let me explain what this blog is all about. The main objective of Go Green Pittsburgh is to provide as much information as possible in an easy-to-understand format to simplify the research process as well as encourage participation in community activities and to promote growth within our local economy. This will be the one true resource guide for all things green (eco-friendly, organic, natural) throughout Pittsburgh and Western PA. (I say “true resource guide” because I am not charging any type of fee to be listed.) It will serve as an easy access guide to local businesses and organizations committed to creating a healthier planet, to community contact information, specific recycling/waste guidelines as well as community clean up days and events, to health care professionals dedicated to using a natural approach for healing, to local, certified naturally grown and organic farms, dairies and farmers’ markets, and to various other green resources. There are literally hundreds of websites out there pertaining to this information but you would seriously spend hours upon hours looking through them all. (I know because I do it regularly!) That’s why I feel the need to put it all on one site: make it easy, accessible, informative, fun and unbiased. And with so many options within our region, Pittsburgh is quickly becoming a leader in green innovation. Now we just need to make more people aware of it.

 

I promise not to be preachy! And I fully understand that some people just don’t care. But for those of you that do, please post, email and/or communicate this blog to your friends and family. Thank you in advance!

 

Oh, and since it is Earth Day please let me know what you have done to celebrate. I know it’s pretty chilly out today and maybe planting trees or picking up garbage isn’t your thing…you could make yourself a cocktail with organic vodka and you’ll be set!

 

Coming up tomorrow: CSAs ~ what is it and where to sign up.