Kimberton CSA is a community of people that was formed to create and support a Biodynamic garden. Some of us are farmers, some are consumers, and some are a little of each. The garden was started in 1987 by interested members and Barbara and Kerry Sullivan looking for ways of doing business that would best provide for the needs of everyone involved, including those of our environment. Some of the founding member still belong, while others have come and gone. The Sullivan's have since moved on after 15 years of dedicated service, and Birgit and Erik Landowne continue the work they started. The community's ways of working together continue to evolve according to the wishes, interests, understanding and energy of the members.

The Land

Our CSA garden is 10 acres of silty loam soil, owned by and leased from the Kimberton Waldorf School, and is located on Seven Stars Road near the village of Kimberton, Chester County, Pennsylvania.

Our land and the pastures that surround the CSA was farmed for many years as part of the dairy farm previously known as Kimberton Farms. Today 10 acres are leased to Kimberton CSA, while the remaining land is leased to Seven Stars Farm, which produces the popular Seven Stars Biodynamic/Organic Yogurt.

The CSA garden is farmed biodynamically. This means that, in addition to avoiding the use of toxic chemicals for fertility and pest control, specific Biodynamic methods and careful stewardship of the land are practiced to ensure the long-term health of the farm's soil, plants, and animals. Rather than merely avoiding, as much as possible, practices that are harmful to the environment, Biodynamic farming aims to be a positive force for the healing of an ailing Earth.

The Gardeners

Birgit and Erik Landowne are the permanent full-time gardeners. Three interns work alongside them from April through October.

The Members

Currently we are offering 200 shares. Most of our members live in the local area, however there are some from outlying cities such as Reading and Philadelphia who make the trip each week to the farm.

The Volunteers

We try to accommodate everyone who wants to work in the garden. Members can participate in scheduled work mornings, or make individual arrangements for volunteering on a regular or occasional basis. Some members have enjoyed "adopting" a bed or a crop for the season. A visit to the garden then becomes a chance to check up on "their" plants and give whatever care is needed. We also try to accommodate any non-members who wish to learn about Biodynamic gardening and/or CSA.

The Core Group

Every member is welcome to join the CSA Core Group. This group fluctuates in numbers and in frequency of meetings, according to the needs of the CSA, and the interests of the current members. The Core Group has organized educational programs, workshops, and festivals. The Fall Harvest Festival has been a success and we would like to have something similar each year. If you enjoy planning and organizing, the core group needs you.

Distribution/Garden Access

All produce is picked up at the farm. Members take what their own family can use. Shares cannot be "shared" by more than one household. Some of the crops are U-pick only; while in season they may be harvested by members on any day, at any time. The garden is always open and members are encouraged to visit as often as they like. Children should be supervised at all times. We try to make the garden as safe as possible, but it is not possible to make it childproof. There are always sharp tools, equipment and electric fences to watch for.