By Rhian Williams
We know everyone has been enjoying the warm, dry weather we’ve been having recently. Here on the farm, it’s been great for getting plants in early, but now we need some rain.
According to the Environment Agency, it’s been the driest January to April since 1929! When you compare this to last year, when it rained consistently until mid April, the difference is marked.
Such unpredictability in weather patterns is likely a feature of climate change that is here to stay, and something that farmers in other countries have already been experiencing for several years.
To combat this, we carefully select varieties of veg that can cope well in a variable climate, and work with the Leeds Seed Savers to help save seed that is especially adapted to grow well in Kirkstall. Small farms that aim to work with nature have a better chance of providing food into the future than big ones growing only a couple of crops and relying on lots of artificial fertilisers and pesticides.
You may also have heard recently about cyber attacks on various big food retailers and the wholesalers that supply them. Perhaps this is a reminder of the value of short supply chains – we know each of our customers and could continue to provide food each week even if a rogue hacker fancied having a go at our website (seems unlikely…..).
People are at the heart of everything we do at the farm and we’ve been pleased to welcome lots of new volunteers, visitors and staff this spring.
The Community Supported Agriculture Network have employed an Engagement Officer to work with us and other CSAs in West Yorkshire to expand our capacity for community outreach – you’ll be hearing from Jude soon!
We also hosted a visit from Better Leeds Communities recently, where everyone enjoyed digging up garlic, potting up mint and tasting lettuce and broad beans. Spending time in nature and learning about growing food is so important, and we want as many people as possible to enjoy this at the farm. It’s always fantastic to see so many kids’ groups using the social space and forest school area.
As always, check out our website for more info on volunteering and veg boxes!
Kirkstall Valley Farm’s annual fundraising party!
Celebrate four years of community-supported agriculture with Kirkstall Valley Farm on Saturday, 5 July from 3pm until late. We’ve been proudly providing fresh vegetables to over 130 families in Kirkstall every single week and are excited to share this milestone with you!
This year we’re raising funds to build our third polytunnel and support our work with volunteers. So all ticket sales, proceeds from the bar and food and prize draw sales will go towards this
Help us grow by celebrating with us…
Festivities for all ages! From 3-6pm enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with various stalls, craft activities, and play equipment for the children. Relax with tea and cakes while enjoying musical performances and hopefully some great British weather – all in an alcohol-free setting.
As the evening progresses, we have delicious home-cooked meals available for purchase and our bar will open at 6pm, selling a range of alcoholic and soft drinks. Stalls will also remain open until 8pm.
Don’t miss out on Kirkstall’s finest musical talents, including live bands and a DJ to dance the night away. Music from 4.30pm brings together local artists and a range of musical tastes – something for everyone and a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent in Yorkshire.
No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If you can’t attend, please consider supporting the event by buying a “pay it forward” ticket – this makes a free ticket available for someone who is low on funds.
Book your tickets here: https://bookwhen.com/kvdt/e/ev-s82f-20250705150000
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