How to Eat Local This Fall: 4 Chef-Approved Farm Shares Near You

Don’t get us wrong, farm shares are always wonderful. 

But during Fall, there’s something extra magical about getting a fresh box of produce grown on local land. A callback to New England roots, maybe. Squash, corn, potatoes, apples: it’s rustic, and it’s what we do best. (It’s also another organic, colorful way to supplement your regular Tiny Spoon meals, in case you’re not already crushing those daily nutrient quotas!)

Beyond the fun of seasonal veg, farm shares are one of the best ways to support your local producers during a tough year. Small, local farms are a integral part of New England culture, so consider giving them a little extra insurance this year - and get some delicious Fall treats in return!

Land’s Sake - Weston

An awesome nonprofit pledged to practice and educate about sustainability, Land’s Sake asks the community to “join us for one of our many hands-on, fun programs; stop by the farm stand to pick up the season’s freshest produce; or meet your friends at the farm or in the woods for social gatherings. However you like to participate, you’ll be a part of a dynamic nonprofit organization that engages people to preserve and maintain open space.” Stop by the farm stand for collards, winter squash, bok choi, apples, and more. You can also pick your own herbs and flowers on site!

Siena Farms - Sudbury, Boston South End, and Boston Public Market

An often-referenced favorite of TSC, Siena Farms believes that their “emphasis on soil health as well as freshness makes a real difference in the flavor, nutrition, shine, and storage quality of our produce. We collaborate with some of the region’s top chefs to develop our crop varietal selections and harvest techniques.” Their CSA farm shares are open for flexible enrollment right now, and they offer weekly/biweekly and custom schedules.

Brookwood Community Farm - Canton

Located south of the city in the Blue Hills, Brookwood is committed to a synthetic-free farming practice, explaining that “all crops are grown using organic practices that promote a healthy soil and balanced ecosystem to maintain populations of “good bugs,” soil microorganisms and disease fighting mechanisms in the field. Soil fertility is achieved without the use of synthetic chemicals, through composting, nutrient recycling, cover crops/green manures, organic fertilizers, raised beds and other soil building techniques.” Their CSA farm shares come in standard four-serving boxes and half shares, and they also offer egg, fruit, and pick-your-own flower shares!

Waltham Fields Community Farm - Waltham

Waltham Fields Community Farm “envisions communities in which sustainable agriculture plays a central role in creating universal access to the food and beauty of local farms.” Their online farm stand is a particularly unique offering, where you can order cider, bread, locally farmed meat, cheese and more from the comfort of your couch. Even better, every item in the WFCF “Barn Store”(including sauces, pickled foods, etc.) is sourced from small farms and businesses across New England.