Farm Manager Jenni Smith Meets with Residents ahead of Phoebe Organic Farm
Phoebe Ministries and the Rodale Institute hosted a meet and greet event at Chestnut Ridge at Rodale on February 25th where residents were formally introduced to Farm Manager Jennifer Smith. Smith (who also lovingly goes by “Farmer Jenni”) will be the primary leader in the operations of Phoebe Organic Farm at Founders Farm, and will be responsible for overseeing growth process, sustainability efforts, and food transportation.
Though Smith had met residents of Phoebe before, this event provided an inviting space for those interested in the project to ask questions and get to know Smith at a deeper level.
Senior Farm Manager Rick Carr kicked off the session by discussing the Rodale Institute’s long history in organic, regenerative farming. He also described the importance of Phoebe Organic Farm to Rodale’s roots. Smith then stepped up to the podium and began by sharing the story of her upbringing in the local area. Her excitement over the farm was palpable.
“This is my literal dream job,” said Smith. She spoke about the importance of growing organic and how it benefits our health and the planet. She also mentioned sitting down with Chef Timothy Strella and discussing what foods would best serve his recipes and the residents of Chestnut Ridge.
Smith then talked about the exciting opportunities that will be available on the farm for residents, including harvesting their own food, picking flowers, or simply enjoying the farm’s beauty. Smith and Carr both shared general updates on the farm. Their latest development was the deer fence that now surrounds the property.
As a token of appreciation for the support of Chestnut Ridge residents, Smith brought a custom wreath to be hung on site as a reminder of the new partnership.
Phoebe Organic Farm was unveiled at a groundbreaking event on November 6, 2024. The project emphasizes Rodale and Phoebe’s commitment to sustainability and nutrition through the growth of organic food. The food grown on the farm will be used in resident meals in addition to being sold in the Chestnut Ridge marketplace.
For the 2025 growing season, the farm will operate on roughly two acres, but by 2030 the goal is to be cultivating 10+ acres. Additional plans for the farm include chickens, a greenhouse, and several hoophouses to extend the growing season of crops. Another future goal is to establish a public-facing farmer’s market at Chestnut Ridge where members of the local community can buy crops grown directly from Phoebe Organic Farm.
For more updates on Phoebe Organic Farm, stay tuned for our Spring Messenger magazine or follow Chestnut Ridge at Rodale on social media.
Written by Dominic Trabosci
Photos by Rodale Institute
