NS Organic Farmers

Taproot Farms

Patricia Bishop and Josh Oulton are the dynamic duo behind Taproot Farms–the largest Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) operation in the Maritimes. They offer bountiful, quality food throughout 52 weeks of the year, servicing over 400 members throughout Halifax, Dartmouth, and in Kings and Hants counties.

Located in the heartland of the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Taproot Farms features a long, extensive list of fresh, nutritious produce, ranging from asparagus, okra, hot peppers and various greens to over 15 types of tomatoes - which Patricia chooses mainly for heirloom varieties. During colder months when fresh produce is less abundant, preservation has taken an important role on the farm, supplying CSA members with frozen pesto, canned salsa, pickles, and jams in addition to their root vegetables.

While Patricia and Josh are committed to growing certified organic produce they also collaborate with other local farmers to offer a diverse selection of local produce in their CSA packages. Transparency is vital to Patricia and in each weekly newsletter filled with recipes and farm news, Patricia clearly indicates the range of farming practices connected to each food item.

Committed to integrity and promoting consumer responsibility, Taproot Farms is striving to set a precedent of local food access for all members of their community. “We would very much like to increase the amount of nutritious food that families living in low income situations in our community have access to,” states Patricia. Besides regular deliveries to the local food bank, Taproot Farms offers a donation option for those interested in supporting and/or subsidizing a CSA share for families with a more compromised income.

Another nourishing feature of this highly productive farm is the Swallows Nest Farm Stay, a rental option for those in need of a rural getaway with an agricultural connection. A large, private house including a sauna, fireplace and two-person Jacuzzi, this soothing environment comes with fresh farm produce, fresh eggs, and freshly baked bread.

Taproot Farms has much to celebrate and in 2010, their hard work was acknowledged when Patricia was the recipient of the Spirit N.S. Local Food Award. Additionally, Patricia and Josh have been recognized as Outstanding Young Farmers of 2010, one of seven partnerships awarded in Canada. Their commitment and dedication to the local food system is changing Nova Scotia, in effect, Patricia and Josh are pioneers of a new way of thinking about food:

“Taproot Farms' commitment to the local food movement only begins by providing fresh, delicious food to your homes. The responsibility extends to being active in the community and welcoming you and your family to experience farming first hand.”
Patricia Bishop – Taproot Farms

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