NCWM Harvest Gala

We still support the local projects you know and love: the West Milford Farmers Market, Community Gardens, Ample Harvest… but with our new focus on building connection with nature and neighbors. NCWM has spent the last year envisioning new ways to bring residents the education and resources they need to forge an even stronger connection to our natural surroundings. 2024 promises to begin the process of bringing everything we’ve envisioned to reality.

We look forward to celebrating our growth with you as we build the foundation for a stronger, more connected community and environment of West Milford at a very special event.

Save the date and stay tuned for more information on NCWM’s 2024 Harvest Gala, and become a part of a powerful new future that values our local environment and all it has to offer as highly as the communities it supports. 

Join us on August 17, 2024 in celebrating Nature Connection of West Milford’s first year of community in nature! (rain date, August 24)

What are the Community Gardens

Back in 2007 two local young residents, Katie Hayes and Joe Natale, decided they wanted to build and support an organic community garden. At the time, the mission of Sustainable West Milford (now Nature Connection of West Milford) was to support participant-led projects… so of course we said yes!  Robin Rose Bennett, a local herbalist and author, introduced us to Anne Thornton who owns Apple Acres. We asked if she had room to accommodate a community garden, and she said YES. 

After many backbreaking hours of work turning over the old Apple Acres cow pasture and building a garden fence from a deck on the property that our volunteers had helped deconstruct, the community gardens were born. 

By 2011, we had so many people on the waiting list that we created a second garden at Wallisch Homestead. Today, there are 65 garden plots in total: 30 at Apple Acres and 35 at Wallisch. Each year 3 to 4 plots of the 65 are turned over to new gardeners on the waiting list, but some of our long-term gardeners have even been willing to share their larger plot with new members. 

An 8x8 community garden plot at either Apple Acres or Wallisch Homestead costs $40 for the year. Soil amendments, pest control resources, education, and a community of like-minded people who support each other are all included as part of the membership fee. Because our gardeners range greatly in age and working schedules, we tend to have a group of people sprinkled throughout the week during the mornings and afternoons, as well as a different group that tends to garden more on weekends. 

At least 30 of our gardeners engage in the regular fun and lively social events at both gardens where you will find them sharing food they made from what they are growing, and enjoying a mocktail (or cocktail) while gathered around a bonfire. In addition to social and educational events, garden members have exclusive opportunities to purchase organic plants from local farmers, bring their skills and talents toward overall garden improvements that benefit all members, and are encouraged to contribute to a garden committee to help keep the gardens maintained and thriving. (mowing, pest control, composting, etc.). The gardens truly have become a community meeting place all season long. 
For those who wish to garden with us, but are not ready for a plot, the Ample Harvest Culinary Herb Garden project is a great place to start.

Culinary Herb Garden

This year Nature Connection of West Milford is piloting a culinary and medicinal herb garden at the Wallisch Homestead. Our goal is to grow, harvest and deliver enough fresh organic herbs to support a few of our local restaurants in town. Later in the season, we hope to provide those same herbs in a dried form for both culinary and medicinal uses.

Last season, we had a chance to build a dedicated culinary herb plot at Wallisch. Thanks to the helpful hands of a few volunteers, we tested the concept and learned which herbs grow best in the plot. Organic oregano, a variety of peppermint, parsley, basil, cilantro and more were successful. 

Despite a late start, we were able to provide fresh herbs to the Vreeland Store for four weeks last year. Owner, Fran Lanza, was excited to partner with Wallisch and the Organic Community Gardens and to have her chef include the herbs in a variety of recipes. We also donated 50+ jars of dried herbs with culinary and medicinal recipes to community members and local food pantries for the holidays. From peppermint tea to oregano oil, there are so many fun uses for our taste buds and our health!

At the end of the 2024 season, we plan to sell jars of dried herbs and accompanying recipes from local cooks and herbalists. Look for us at our winter market and other holiday events. 

This season, we have a small group of dedicated volunteers to help us expand and prove the project can sustain the need, and how to best benefit local restaurants and residents. We are looking for a leader to work on this exciting project in this magical place. Are you the one we’ve been waiting for? 

Email Cathy at cgb2673@optonline.net to learn more.

What is Ample Harvest?

Ample Harvest brings excess produce from backyard gardens to neighbors in need. The volunteers who participate in our local Ample Harvest program include community garden plot owners that donate from what they grow, and volunteers that plant, tend and harvest from our four dedicated 8X8 garden beds—two in our Apple Acres community gardens, and two at the Wallisch Homestead gardens.  

Attendance at all food pantries in the region have gone up exponentially as inflation rises, jobs are downgraded or eliminated making it hard hard to make ends meet. Local pantries receive the harvest on their designated food pantry day, so everything participants receive is fresh. Pantry directors shared that they see the Ample Harvest donations making a huge difference by helping many families include fresh produce in their shopping cart. 

In a March 2024 article run in NJ Spotlight News where NJ resident Sheila Long, who making $60,000/year at the age 63, said  it was a shock when she needed to turn to the pantry, nad that the pantry fills a critical role for people who can’t make ends meet, and who may not ever have expected to depend on help with groceries.

“It was a hard pill because you feel like you are self-sufficient, that you can take care of yourself so it’s disappointing when you find out that you can’t take care of yourself,” Long said in the article. “You might be one paycheck away from it and you don’t even realize it until it happens.” 

We are looking for volunteers for the 2024 season. Want to learn more? Email Cathy at cgb2673@optonline.net

What is NCWM Public Education?

In our region, there are so many beautiful natural places and things to do in the great outdoors! Yet, many of our friends and neighbors struggle with finding ways to enjoy the outdoors on their own or with their family. There are so many great resources in our town, and we know that as the landscape and demands of our lives change rapidly, our needs within our community and our environment change, too. 

Nature Connection of West Milford’s public education offers resources and guidance for connecting with nature in new and significant ways. Whether you are a seasoned outdoor enthusiast curious about new ways to forge connections within your community, a new family trying to re-learn new ways of doing things with young children, newly moved to the area, or someone who looking to make their very first meaningful nature connection, our Public Education Series and field trips are designed to empower you to access nature in the way that works best for you. 

Discover nature as our food supply, the healing power of food and medicinal power of native plants, and how nature acts as the ultimate communicator—bringing us together in how we relate to our environment and each other.  Our Public education offers new ways to grow and connect together through nature. Come with us to watch a sunset, walk the shoreline, swim  the lake, stare at the stars, hug a tree, kayak the reservoir, explore botanical gardens, forage in the forest, plant and harvest vegetables and herbs. . . 

Ample Harvest November Update

Ample Harvest had a number of accomplishments we’d like to share for 2023:

• Ample Harvest extended its efforts to Wallisch Garden this year

• Increased awareness of our program via facebook posting

• We increased participation at Apple Acres—we now have up to 11 gardeners participating

• New gardeners/volunteers Jim, Courtney, Jessica kept plot well maintained at Wallisch

• Thank you Barbara of MidSummer Farms for the plant donations to both gardens

• Fresh produce tally:  388 pounds from Apple Acres and 166 pounds from Wallisch

• Thanks to Courtney, outreach to local partners, Evergreen Farms, brought in additional 360 pounds of apples!

Our goals for 2024 include:

• More outreach to pantries to receive input on what to grow next year

• More promotion to increase awareness and volunteer base

• Formalizing and creating better tracking for the donation station at Farmers Market

• Building a team to improve overall goals and tracking across the program

• Create weekly updates 

• Maintain/increase participation at Apple Acres

• Increase participation at Wallisch

Thank you for all of your support of the Ample Harvest program. Your support makes it possible to rescue fresh produce that would otherwise go uneaten, and provide local families in need with fresh, organic food on a regular basis for five months out of the year. 

More on the West Milford Ample Harvest program

The basis of Ample Harvest is to rescue produce for gardeners that grow too much. Don’t let produce go to waste in the garden—collect it and donate it to the local food pantry. Pantry clients benefit from nutritious food.

We have operations at both Apple Acres and Wallisch Homestead and supplement the process of rescuing produce from member plots with a plot at each garden that is dedicated solely to Ample Harvest donations for the five growing/producing months each year.

For any topics related to the above or the West Milford Ample Harvest program at our community gardens, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528

Community Gardens November Update

Wallisch Gardens

This was a banner year for Wallish Garden’s Community Gardens. Some of our accomplishments this season include:

Securing a lumber donation from Kuiken Brothers, which allowed us to build eight new plots: 

• 2 plots for Ample Harvest

• 2 plots for Culinary Herb pilot

• 4 plots to clear the wait list

We continued building community connection with the Wallisch Homestead leaders: 

• Luke from Nature Connection West Milford began attending monthly board meetings

Mark L secured a plot to partner with John & Wendy on Culinary Herb pilot 

• Jim, Sandy, Kathy and Wendy started culinary herb plot and completed two deliveries of basil and parsley to the Vreeland Store

We reapplied for a DigIn Grant to continue to improve operations for next year

Thank you to everyone we may not have mentioned who volunteered their time, money and other donations to keep the gardens running this season. We couldn’t do it without you!

Our goals for 2024 include:

• Building a partnership with Apple Acres Community Gardens

• To continue garden education workshops to increase gardener engagement

• Host a public seed swap in January or February

• Revisit the potential for kitchen scrap composting program

• Secure manure and compost

• Map out a plan for Culinary Herbs in 2024, perhaps building a hoop hut depending on demand

Apple Acres

We had our final work day at the garden on the 15th. It was a light showing but everything we needed was accomplished by hard working volunteers.

Norma and Karl began prepping the compost piles for the winter.  Our next step is to apply lime and then cover it for the winter.

Tom has disassembled the water supply and he and Patrick will be moving the tote to winter storage in the next week.

The infamous "Joh's hole" has been filled and the weeds cut down around the fence, both inside and outside

We expect the gardens to be cleared in the next week or so.  We have a garden or two we may have to clean out—they have been mainly no shows for a large part of the season.

We have one more social to plan for, that will be the Winter Solstice, no details at this time.

Sue

West Milford Farmers Market November Update

This season has been a journey filled with fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and cherished moments. The sight of market stalls overflowing with the fruits of our vendors’ labor, the sounds of laughter and music filling the air, and the warmth of the community coming together—these are the memories we've harvested. It's these memories that make our market and gardens truly special. As we approach Thanksgiving, we have so much to be grateful for—for your support, food pantry donations, and especially your ideas for improving the market in 2024. We look forward to our Winter Celebration and future education days and field trips in the coming year. Stay tuned for more!  

More to keep an eye out for in 2024: We are going to have pizza back at the market, a new animal rescue non-profit and field trips! 

Discover our Vendors: 

Pickle Licious

Empanada Lady

Hope Cress Farms

Orlando's Bakery

The Cheese Guy

Muino Bakery

Rosie's Market

Clyde's Ices & Ice Cream Co

The Gritty Sisters Soapery

All About Microgreens

Pesto Joe

To learn more about our vendors and what’s at market each week, visit www.westmilfordfarmersmarket.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

We hope to see you at market next season!

November Education Days with NCWM

Bees, butterflies, birds and a variety of other pollinators are integral to our food supply and planet as a whole. During our October Education night, Jodi Bross from Glenwild Gardens showed us which native plants attract and support those pollinators and how easy they are to grow on our lawns. Three lucky attendees received a potted perennial pollinator plant from Glenwild, and we all received seeds to plant in our own garden this fall. Milkweed pods, and sweet pea seeds, and a variety of other seeds suitable to grow before first frost were given to participants along with a pollinator garden map, and a 20% coupon from Glenwild to help fill in their garden. 

Several of those in attendance shared pictures of the gardens they planted this fall and again in the summer when everything is in bloom. Got a pollinator garden? Send us your pictures!

Our November education night included a screening of this provocative and informative documentary that answers questions about genetically modified organisms and how they affect our children, the health of our planet and our freedom of choice. GMO OMG is a timely, informative, entertaining, and ultimately insightful documentary about the question that is a growing concern to citizens around the world; who controls the future of our food? 

Popcorn was served and a 30 minute discussion about GMOs followed the screening. 

Upcoming Events:

Winter Celebration Get Together  

December 14th, 7-9pm

West Milford Library

Come and celebrate the season with nature-minded people like yourself! Bring a friend and mingle with fellow gardeners, farmers market shoppers and other local residents that are making the connection. Bring a dish to share, and join us to enjoy some great seasonal music, great conversation, ornament making, games and more! Please RSVP to our FB Event page or to lukeaaron93@hotmail.com

October Education Days with NCWM

At September’s Education Night, “Using Plants for Topical Health,” Karen—NCWM Herbalist and co-leader of the Native Medicinal Plant Garden—taught us to make our own nature-based salve and oil using the “weeds” growing in most backyards right now. Participants learned to recognize and use plantain (plantago major), calendula and goldenrod growing prolifically in lawns and wooded areas.

Karen demonstrated how to prepare the herbs, taught us what parts to use, showed us how to infuse the plant, and shared all of the amazing ways to use those infusions topically. She also shared a variety of books and websites, as well as information on sourcing local plants, and connecting with other herbalists. You can see her presentation here, and get the resource lists here.

Want to get involved in the Medicinal Plant Garden? Contact Karen: klongo413@yahoo.com.

Public Education Events:

November Education: MOVIE NIGHT - GMO’s OMG + Discussion

Thursday, November 9, 2023; 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

West Milford Library, 1470 Union Valley Rd

Join us for this movie and discussion on GMOs, what they are exactly, and how they impact our health. Popcorn will be served!

December: Winter Holiday Get Together with our Nature Connection Community!

Thursday, December 14, 2023 7-9pm

West Milford Library 1470 Union Valley Road

Watch this spot for details in the November newsletter!

Learn more about these and other Nature Connection events here.

Native Medicinal Gardens October Update

John and I enjoyed a lovely September day at the Garden last month. The flowering goldenrod, evening primrose and jerusalem artichoke were gloriously golden ray of sunshine on a beautiful day! We continued weeding and checked on our transplants from last month. The baby catnip is settling in nicely and the witch hazel sapling is holding her own. John pruned back some of the over-drooping black walnut branches so we can walk the path without ducking or getting hit in the head. We also worked on delineating the paths to the comfrey and anise hyssop/lobelia/tobacco patch and used the pruned black walnut branches to clearly mark paths. 

John began preparing a bed for our last garden day of season on October 22nd from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. We will be transplanting some wanderers into that space. Please join us! 

Happy Gardening!

Karen & John

Community Gardens October Update

Apple Acres

Apple Acres Organic Community Garden hosted a memorial tribute dinner to Giovanni "John" Macaluso on Saturday, September 23. John was a very special member of our community who passed away last October. He was a warm, generous, friendly man who gave of himself to all. His gardening advice and willingness to help endeared him to everyone. He was a tireless worker and his plot was lush and bountiful. In memory of John, the gardeners purchased two beautiful outdoor tables that convert into benches. The quality and flexibility of the tables ensure that they will be used for many years to come.

John's wife, Maria, their children, grandchildren, his sister, extended family and friends were honored guests. Everyone participated in a lavish potluck dinner that included delicacies from our garden plots. Everywhere, there were conversations about John's love and generosity. We miss him but he is always in our hearts. 

Wallish Gardens

The growing season is winding down at the Wallisch Homestead organic community garden.

A small and spirited group gathered to celebrate the fall equinox on 9/22. We enjoyed some yummy fresh food and good company.  Our gardeners extend their talent to capturing the beauty of the property.  Wallisch really shines in many ways and we just love capturing it to share, remember and reflect.

We may not see them on a regular basis but many volunteers are keeping our property well maintained,  giving thanks to:

• Donna, Neil and Jim for keeping the grass mowed and whacked

• Dori for keeping the water tank filled 

• David and Mary Beth for fixing the gates

• Sierra for planting the flowers along the borders

• Jim, Courtney, Jessica for keeping the Ample Harvest and Culinary plots tended and watered

• Jean for organizing our social gatherings

Culinary Herbs Plot

We started the Culinary Herbs plot a month late but the really good news is that the plot flourished. The basil came in abundance and the oregano is really growing. We were able to share samples of basil and parsley with the Vreeland store. Plans are underway to further develop the program for 2024.

Our plants are winding down, and for some this means putting our gardens to bed for the winter.     For others, a gardener favorite, garlic, will be planted.  Both of these tasks are planned with the Wallisch Work Day. Our gardens are set to close on Oct 28th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.    

We reapplied for the Dig In! City Green grant.   

If we are accepted, the grant will allow us to receive educational workshops and supplies to improve the garden. We will hear in early 2024 if we are accepted.   

For any topics related to the above or the Wallisch Community Garden, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528.

Ample Harvest October Update

Thanks to the thoughtful and generous participation of the West Milford Community gardeners, we have tallied 533 pounds of rescued produce this season that was harvested and delivered fresh to our customers at Holy Faith Lutheran, Queen of Peace, St. Joseph’s, SOS, West Milford Presbyterian. 

The month of September was a treasure trove of the full range of vegetables: Many cucumbers, green beans, peppers and tomatoes, various squashes, fresh fragrant basil, hearty kale & chard. For an extra splash of sweet, we were able to add a delightful mix of strawberry and raspberry as well.   

We’d like to offer up a big thanks to community gardeners at Apple Acres and Wallisch for sharing their produce. This has been a banner year for West Milford Ample Harvest with more than 45% of community gardeners growing and sharing. We tended two plots dedicated to growing donation-only produce for our local pantries.

Thanks to volunteers Anne, Deb, Courtney, Jim, Steven, Cindy, Katie for helping with the weekly harvests.

We encourage all backyard gardeners to consider sharing your bounties with those in need.      For the remainder of the West Milford Farmers Market season, you can drop off your donation on Wednesday’s between 4 and 6 p.m.  Your local food pantries will benefit greatly through serving their clients with fresh, nutritious produce.      

More on the West Milford Ample Harvest program

The basis of Ample Harvest is to rescue produce for gardeners that grow too much. Don’t let produce go to waste in the garden—collect it and donate it to the local food pantry. Pantry clients benefit from nutritious food.

We have operations at both Apple Acres and Wallisch Homestead and supplement the process of rescuing produce from member plots with a plot at each garden that is dedicated solely to Ample Harvest donations.

Flags and instructions for the Ample Harvest Flag System are posted near the gate in both gardens.  Community gardeners are encouraged to share their bounty as their gardens start to produce.

We have two Ample Harvest schedules to ensure fresh delivery.  

1. At Apple Acres on Saturdays at 8:30 AM, serving the pantries open on Saturday

2. At Wallisch on Thursdays, 10AM, serving the pantries open during the week

Upcoming Ample Harvest events:

• Weed and water (ongoing)

• Harvest (weekly at each garden)

• Replant for 2nd crops

This has been a year of growth for West Milford Ample Harvest. 

We expanded to the Wallisch Organic Community Garden. We had over 45% of gardeners across both community gardens contributing. Our donations of great quality food increased by 40% in weight. We have helped the local food pantries serve the food insecure!    

Cathy, Jim and Jessica have joined a team organized by Courtney to actively discuss continuing to build the program. Suggestions for improving our operation are always welcome and we are seeking volunteers to come help plant, tend, harvest and deliver.

For any topics related to the above or the West Milford Ample Harvest program at our community gardens, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528

West Milford Farmers Market October Update

Though the harvest season may be drawing to a slow close, the Farmers Market is still at the West Milford Presbyterian Church each Wednesday through October. We now close at 6 p.m. (instead of 7) to accommodate the growing darkness.

Each week we offer fresh produce like apples, corn and tomatoes, as well as premade pesto, pickles and condiments, pasture-raised meat and dairy, prepared foods like empanadas and flatbreads, body care and jewelry, and even locally brewed beer.  

Don't forget to get on our vendors mailing lists so you can find your favorites all winter long! 

Learn more about our vendors and where to find them online and off-season HERE.

We're proud to host talented local musicians who provide a live soundtrack to your shopping experience. Music not only adds to the ambiance but also helps create a sense of community and togetherness. 

Beyond bringing fresh produce to your table, our farmers market plays a crucial role in supporting those in need. We are committed to fighting food insecurity in our community. We partner with the local food pantries to provide essential items to families facing hardship. With your support, we've been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many. Consider making a donation during your next visit to help us continue this important work. 

We welcome volunteers and community partnerships for those looking to get involved in different ways. Together, we can continue to make our market a thriving hub of fresh food and community spirit.Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you at our market soon!

Thank you for your support

We know that Farmers Markets are a 'green' economic accelerator for the health of our local economy and we thank you deeply for your support. Stay tuned for some exciting harvest-themed Kids Korner crafts and be sure to talk to your favorite vendors on how you can keep purchasing during the off-season! 

To get a full list of our vendors, sign up or our website, or learn more about what’s at market each week, visit www.westmilfordfarmersmarket.com

Discover our Vendors: 

Pickle Licious

Empanada Lady

Hope Cress Farms

Orlando's Bakery

The Cheese Guy

Muino Bakery

Rosie's Market

Clyde's Ices & Ice Cream Co

The Gritty Sisters Soapery

All About Microgreens

Pesto Joe

Meet our Musicians: 

Marty Koppel 

Bob Nicholson

Peter Sando

Marji Zintz ,

DnA (with Dani Zanoni)

We continue to spotlight our vendors and musicians with new posts each week. To learn more about our vendors and what’s at market each week, visit www.westmilfordfarmersmarket.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

We hope to see you at market on Wednesdays through October from 3-6 p.m. at the West Milford Presbyterian Church.

September Education Days with NCWM

This August during our NCWM Education Day four (4) experts in their fields shared how to stay safe and comfortable in our wild and beautiful region.

Don Weise- Director at the NY/NJ trail Conference and avid hiking leader on trail safety, taught us how to prepare and plan for the most enjoyable hiking experiences, including having the right gear, having a plan A, B and C, as well as the importance of staying in touch with those that can help you in an emergency.

Julia Giarratano- Manager and swimming/lifeguard instructor at Highlands Natural Pool presented on water safety in a pool, lake or other fresh body of water in our region. She discussed topics such as self-care in the sun and water, signaling boaters, and even how to assist others struggling in the water. View her presentation HERE.

Tom Hennigan- ED of Jersey Off Road Bicycle Association (JORBA) discussed biking safely on trails. He also shared with us the work JORBA teams are doing to maintain and expand trails to enjoy mountain biking in our region. Thanks to all four of our experts for helping us enjoy the great outdoors this season!

Ken Hall- AUX Coast Guard and Security for Upper Greenwood Lake, taught us what’s important to be aware of (slippery surfaces!) and what we need to do (e.g. wear our life vest when using a waverunner, a paddle board or a kayak) to stay safe while enjoying our boating adventures.

Public Education Events:

September Education: Using Plants for Topical Health

Thursday, September 14, 2023; 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

West Milford Library, 1470 Union Valley Rd

Have you always wanted to learn how to make your own nature-based salve or oil? Join Karen, our local herbalist and co-manager of the West Milford Native and Medicinal Plant Garden, to learn about the beneficial plants that are growing all around our local region. Learn the process for making a medicinal oil and salve, and take home recipes for you to make at home. There are so many backyard and garden ‘weeds’ that can offer everyday healing! Karen will show you exactly what you need, and how to do it correctly for the best results in your own kitchen. Seats are limited.

Future education topics will Include:

Your Yard as a Pollinator Garden

Learn about the different plants that will help make your yard a pollinator garden.

GMO’s OMG

What are GMO's and how do they affect our health?

Winter in West Milford

Want to get outdoors this winter? A variety of local presenters will share the different nature-connected events and activities happening in our region this winter so you can combat cabin fever and stay connected.

Learn more about these and other Nature Connection events here.

Community Gardens September Update

Wallisch Community Gardens

The growing season at the Wallisch Homestead organic community garden is blooming!

Our social coordinator, Jean, organized a beautiful new moon party on August 16th. We gathered to share, scribe and bury our intentions. Planting new seeds, a traditional new moon activity, was an added bonus to celebrate the event.

We may not see them on a regular basis, but many volunteers have been keeping our property well maintained. We’d like to off our many thanks to:

• Donna, Neil and Jim for keeping the grass mowed and whacked

• Dori for keeping the water tank filled

• David and Mary Beth for fixing the gates

• Sierra for planting the flowers along the borders

• Jean for organizing our social gatherings

Culinary Herb Program

Our culinary herbs are gaining strength. The basil, mint and parsley is filling out quite well. Our Culinary Herb pilot program will be with two restaurants over the course of three weeks this month. We are setting a good foundation for next year.

For any topics related to the above or the Wallisch Community Garden, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528.

Apple Acres

Congratulations to Anne and Apple Acres for earning 2nd prize for community gardens in the 2023 Dirt Kitchen Garden Tour!

We are surrounded by boundless beauty and energy from the places, spaces and people who share our garden journeys. Thank you!

Ample Harvest September Update

Thanks to the thoughtful and generous participation of the West Milford Community gardeners, we have tallied 265 pounds of donated produce this season. It was all freshly harvested and delivered to our customers at Holy Faith Luthern, Queen of Peace, St. Joseph’s, SOS, West Milford Presbyterian.

Our spotlight so far has been an abundance of zucchini, cucumber and green beans. These veggies go a long way in feeding a family. They are all vegetables that offer a lot of substance and nutrients. We are excited to welcome an onslaught of tomatoes over the next month.

We encourage all backyard gardeners to consider sharing your bounties with those in need. For the remainder of the West Milford Farmers Market season, you can drop off your donation on Wednesday’s between 4 and 6 p.m. Your local food pantries will benefit greatly in serving their clients with fresh, nutritious produce.

More on the West Milford Ample Harvest program

The basis of Ample Harvest is to rescue produce for gardeners that grow too much—don’t let it go to waste in the garden! Instead, collect it and donate it to the local food pantry. Pantry clients benefit from nutritious food, which is traditionally more expensive in grocery stores, but often goes to waste in our gardens!

We have operations at both Apple Acres and Wallisch Homestead to help rescue produce before it goes to waste. We supplement this with a dedicated plot at each garden where 100% of the produce goes to our pantry partners.

Community gardeners are encouraged to share their bounty as the garden starts to produce through the Ample Harvest Flag System. Flags and instructions are posted near the gate in both gardens.

We have two (2) Ample Harvest schedules to ensure fresh delivery:

• At Apple Acres on Saturdays, 8:30 AM, serving the pantries open on Saturday

• At Wallisch on Thursdays, 10AM, serving the pantries open during the week

We also take food donations at the West Milford Farmers Market on Wednesdays from 3-7pm.

Upcoming Ample Harvest events

• Weed and water (ongoing)

• Harvest (weekly at each garden)

• Replant for 2nd crops

Suggestions for improving our operation are always welcome and we are seeking volunteers to come help plant, tend, harvest and deliver.

For any topics related to the above or the West Milford Ample Harvest program at our community gardens, please reach out to Cathy Bruce at cgb2673@optonline.net or 201-264-3528

Native and Medicinal Garden September Update

The Native Garden is thriving! Echinacea is in full flower and goldenrod is just beginning to bloom. During our August gardening day, we evaluated what needs to be transplanted and gave a garden tour to one visitor. Karen and John spent the day planting. That included several baby catnip on the hillside, and a young witch hazel tree, a larger catnip and a couple of tobacco plants up top. John and Karen donated the catnip from the forest of it surrounding their house, and the witch hazel and tobacco were donated to us by Barbara and Mark from Midsummer Farm in Warwick. They have been amazing plant benefactors of our garden—thank you both!!! The red cardinal flower and blue lobelia plants she gave us last year are just starting to bloom and the angelica is flourishing.

Please visit Midsummer Farm online or in person to learn about what they are doing, the plants they are selling and the classes they are teaching. There are two more gardening days left this season (September 17th and October 22nd 11:30a - 3:30p). Next month we will be transplanting some of our friends who have escaped their beds and are traveling afar. Please join us!

Happy Gardening!

West Milford Farmers Market September Update

Is it the end of summer already!?  

Not really, but it sure feels like it. As everyone is in the back-to-school flurry, don’t forget that the farmers market has a lot of what you need to keep you going after the kids go back. As the days begin to grow perceptibly shorter, we're excited and grateful for the seven weeks of Market still remaining, and the abundance of fresh, local produce still available.  

From mid- to late-summer favorites like peppers, tomatoes and corn, and even the start of some early winter squashes, our booths are full with all of the season’s flavors. But don’t forget about our handmade cheeses, pasture-raised meat and dairy, prepared foods, pickles and condiments, handmade products like body care and jewelry, and even locally brewed beer.  

We always get excited when our vendors use seasonal flavors in their prepared foods too… and expect to see a lot of it now that summer’s shown us her bounty. That includes empanadas, flatbreads, sweets and even seasonal ice creams. Try Muino Baked Goods for your party sweets, or Jessica's Treasures and Treats for something unique. 

We will keep selling all this fresh produce as it keeps producing, all the way through October, so stop by this Wednesday, and every Wednesday for the next two months to stay stocked up with all your local favorites.

Ample Harvest and the WMFM

With so much growing, we have been receiving many generous donations from our vendors and community gardeners for local food pantries throughout West Milford. We work together with Ample Harvest and other organizations in the area to ensure that we get donations of fresh food to our community members in need. 

Food insecurity is a growing concern, and one that is often hidden in plain sight. Please consider supporting those in our local community who are struggling to make ends meet by visiting the market welcome booth with a food or monetary donation that will directly help reduce food insecurity and improve healthy outcomes for our neighbors and friends. If you can’t donate food or dollars, but you can donate your time, please consider volunteering for our local Ample Harvest program.

The West Milford Farmers Market is looking for a few people interested in volunteering a few hours to greet as they come to market. This is a great opportunity for teens or adults to get service hours! Stop by the Market tent to learn more.

Thank you for your support

We know that Farmers Markets are a 'green' economic accelerator for the health of our local economy and we thank you deeply for your support. Stay tuned for some exciting harvest-themed Kids Korner crafts and be sure to talk to your favorite vendors on how you can keep purchasing during the off-season! 

To get a full list of our vendors, sign up or our website, or learn more about what’s at market each week, visit www.westmilfordfarmersmarket.com

Discover our Vendors: 

Pickle Licious

Empanada Lady

Hope Cress Farms

Orlando's Bakery

The Cheese Guy

Rosie's Market

Muino Bakery

Clyde's Ices & Ice Cream Co

The Gritty Sisters Soapery

Meet our Musicians: 

Marty Koppel 

Bob Nicholson

Peter Sando

Marji Zintz ,

DnA (with Dani Zanoni)

We continue to spotlight our vendors and musicians with new posts each week. To learn more about our vendors and what’s at market each week, visit www.westmilfordfarmersmarket.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

We hope to see you at market this Wednesday from 3-7 p.m., and each week through October at the West Milford Presbyterian Church.

August Education days with NCWM

This July we needed the library’s big room in order to have enough space to host our “Eat Better Tonight” session hosted by City Green. Nineteen residents came out to enjoy the interactive workshop where we learned where our food comes from, and how much it “costs” to eat from non-local sources. The impact is more than just financial. Shipping food has environmental and health costs, too. With a clear understanding of the value locally-grown food has for the local economy, the environment, and our own bodies, facilitator Lisa Martin led the group in preparing a locally sourced, seasonal and healthy berry and greens salad with swiss chard, walnuts, strawberries and homemade honey dijon dressing. Participants first created, then enjoyed the salad. Participants took home honey, strawberries and chard from the West Milford Farmers Market to make it again on their own.

Public Education Events:

August Education: Nature Safety

Thursday, August 10, 2023; 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

West Milford Library, 1470 Union Valley Rd

Do you know how to keep yourself and your friends/family safe and comfortable in the great outdoors? Whether hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding, you will want to know how to avoid danger and maintain your safety before, during and after you go. We live in a beautiful, but wild region, and knowing what to expect and what to do in all situations will increase your outdoor enjoyment.

In this interactive session (bring your questions!), you will hear from four (4) local environmental activity experts:

Don Weise- Director at the NY/NJ trail Conference and avid hiking leader on trail safety,

Tom Hennigan- ED of Jersey Off Road Bicycle Association (JORBA) on bike safety,

Julia Giarratano- Manager and swimming and lifeguard instructor at Highlands Natural Pool on swimming safety, and

Micki Lees- Owner of Jersey Paddle Board on boating and paddling safety

See you at the Library on 8/10 from 7-8:30 p.m.!

Future education topics will Include: 

Nature Experience Safety 

Different presenters discuss everything from the basics to advanced safety techniques for hiking, swimming, boating and biking in our region.

Plants for Topical Health 

In this hands-on workshop, we will learn about topical healing while making a salve or balm together.

Your Yard as a Pollinator Garden 

Learn about the different plants that will help make your yard a pollinator garden. 

GMO’s OMG 

What are GMO's and how do they affect our health?  

Winter in West Milford 

Want to get outdoors this winter? A variety of local presenters will share the different nature-connected events and activities happening in our region this winter so you can combat cabin fever and stay connected.

Learn more about these and other Nature Connection events here.