Hope Farm
There was no question of a career path for Reiner Zimmerman. His farm has been certified since 1990 and he has been a practicing organic farmer since 1986. “It must be in my blood,” he said. As the owner of Hope Farm in St. Norbert, New Brunswick, he was one of the first advocates of organics in the Maritimes. Splitting his time between practices in New Brunswick and Germany, Reiner’s schedule is always full. While the farm is well established, this has not stopped Reiner from expanding. Hope Farm is 300 acres, including pasture, hayfield and 4 acres of vegetable crops. Reiner is currently building up a herd of goats and the farm already includes a steer, horse, and several chickens.
Reiner is also developing a vegetable delivery service, with hopes of extending it to home delivery. Dubbed MVB (mixed vegetable boxes), it works in much the same way as a CSA, but instead of buying shares in the crop, the choice to buy is made each week. Reiner’s goal is to provide convenient access to fresh organics in his area.
Having grown up in Germany, Reiner’s decision to move was one made through careful consideration. After extensive research, Reiner settled on New Brunswick as the best choice. With the absence of many pollutants and industry, it seemed an ideal location for organic farming. But he also enjoys returning to Germany at every opportunity, spending Christmas at home whenever possible. While in Europe, he manages an organic farm (one of the largest in former West Germany). He once left for three years to manage the farm in 1997.
It was clear from speaking with Reiner that he has had a love affair with farming since a very early age. Describing himself as, the only crazy one in his family, he was not expected to enter the industry. The inspiration came from harvest season as a child. He would often help with the harvest of potatoes on his great grandparents’ farm. Reiner says, “To this day the best smell I can think of is the smell of a barn full of cows.”
When he first arrived in New Brunswick, the attitude towards organics was lukewarm at best. Many did not know the value of organic production and were reluctant to buy. This was particularly harsh in Moncton; because the sales were so poor, he had to travel to the Fredericton farmer’s market each week to find interested buyers. Things certainly have changed. The recent boom in organics is particularly exciting for farmers who have been practicing as long as Reiner.
If you are interested in contacting Hope Farm, Reiner can be reached at hopefarm@nb.sympatico.ca.
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