A steady stream of planes came and went through the Boerson Farm airspace for this year's EAA gathering, a welcome return to familiar summer sounds after their notable absence last August. The whiz of small planes and the rumble of the old war birds draws our attention skyward, pausing the work that keeps us grounded. Unfortunately, we were not able to break away from the farm to see the annual airshow, but that doesn't mean we missed out on all the fun.
Much closer to home, a stones throw from the vegetable field in fact, is the home base of a whole troupe of areal acrobats. A growing colony of Purple Martins has called the farm home this season, enjoying the Amish made apartment complex we put up early this spring. These very social birds are incredible fliers, chasing and swooping endlessly. To see a dozen or more of them gracefully gathering dinner at dusk is a true marvel of flight. Watching them is a delight, especially knowing that they are chowing down on all manner of flying insects. Humans are attracted to their mythical reputation for devouring mosquitos, and it's a lucky thing for the Martins, as the species is almost entirely dependent on manmade houses.
Their most endearing quality to my mind is their lovely vocabulary. The Audubon website describes their song as, "liquid gurgling warble." I don't know about you, but any creature who can produce that kind of sound is alright with me. Interspersed in their calls and songs are clicks and snaps that are almost other worldly, likely because they are. These members of the Swallow family are only seasonal residents though, migrating annually all the way to the Amazon basin in South America to over winter.
To live amongst such amazing creatures is a real perk of the job. The way we grow your vegetables directly impacts the birds and wildlife that also call the farm home. Purple Martins are among many insect-eating birds that are threatened by our society's over use of insecticides. When the bugs are gone, so are the birds. I'll take a few mosquito bites if it means we get to enjoy our own airshow every day and be distracted from our work by such a joyful noise.
Speaking of your vegetables, we are excited to announce that we will be working with Ernessi Farms of Ripon to offer our members Oyster mushrooms as extras through the remainder of the season. The flavor of oyster mushrooms is delicate and savory, with a hint of complexity on the finish. Some people say they have a slight seafood flavor, or a subtle anise finish (black licorice). Either way, they're best eaten fried or sautéed: we don't recommend eating them raw. If you are interested Oysters will be available by the pound and can be added to your share during the customization period. Ernessi may have other varieties available for us as the weeks continue, and if they are popular enough we will be able to offer mushrooms shares next season! Please let us know what you think.
Enjoy this week's harvest!
Your farmers,
Mat and Danielle
