Education: Clark Farm Carlisle

The last stop of the day on Friday, May 22nd for the Alternative Breaks Boston group was Clark Farm, and organic farm in Carlisle, Massachusetts. Farm manager Andrew stepped outside of his quaint house to greet us, his excitable border collies bounding ahead. The sun shone high and the wind gently brushed our skin as we strolled along expansive rows of spinach, kale, cabbage, and more. We also passed energetic piglets playing together in the mud, and clustered sheep staring at us expectantly. Another enclosure was filled with free-roaming chickens that were busy eating grass and preening themselves. Andrew mentioned that soon the chickens would lay eggs, for which they would conveniently climb into the incubation shed in search of darkness, comfort, and safety. Clark Farm also holds a small section of goats. While each goat was playful and entertaining, the tiny Tyrian named after his “Game of Thrones” counterpart stole the spotlight.

As we explored the farm, Andrew spoke about his background. Though he studied English and History in college and worked in the field of statistical analysis after graduation, Andrew’s interests kept coming back to agriculture. He believed in the benefits of organic farming, and decided to manage his own farm. The local community supported Andrew’s efforts through CSAs, micro-loans that are paid back to individuals in the form of produce grown on the farm. Local support allowed Andrew to acquire necessary technology and resources, and continue leading a life he believes in. Still, the road to managing an organic farm was not without its speed bumps. In order to obtain federal organic certification, Andrew had to pay a hefty fine and abide by strict regulations. He feels that this practice disincentives organic farming and places a toll on those who are striving to be environmentally conscious. Andrew also voiced his concern about the low wages assigned to agricultural workers, wages that make it very difficult for individuals to earn a quality living or support a family.

Visiting Clark Farm was one of my favorite excursions of the AB trip. I couldn’t stop smiling at the sight of healthy farm animals freely roaming around outside and enjoying what seemed to be a high-quality life. This memory validates my support for organic farming, and I plan to continue seeking out produce that comes from local farms. It was also very inspiring to meet a man so passionate about his work; in spite of the long work hours, unpredictable conditions, labor-intensive work, and low pay, Andrew loves what he does. Though I’m still unsure of what I want to do with my life after college, I only hope to find work for which I am as passionate about as Andrew is about organic farming. - Meghana Deshmane