impacted by Helene but we will flower on!

Farm Recovery and Clean-Up Progress

December 2024

Our cold frame is here and we are awaiting word about a date to schedule for the build with the good people at Farmer's Friend. We also secured a late order of tulip bulbs that we will force in our basement grow space so we will have flowers by March and perhaps a little earlier.

I met with the good folks at the USDA and we are set up for debris removal. After storms the USDA has a debris removal program. I simply schedule excavation and debris removal with a private company and pay them, and then the USDA will refund 75%. I have a wonderful neighbor who has already begun excavating and piling up sand and gravel on the farm. Hopefully soon we can schedule a dump truck to come and take this away.

Another part of recovery for me, is planting perennials and bulbs in the fields that will bloom early and make things look more bright and cheery. I found 800 replete daffodil bulbs for sale and immediately purchased them. My plan is to plant them en masse in sections all over the farm. My father called daffodils the 'happy flowers' and for good reason. They are bright and cheerful and signal the winter is near the end. I am realizing disaster recovery is about cleanup AND adding a little more beauty (and dare I say hope) to our future.

Once the cold frame is constructed, we will be planting our riparian zone and will have another volunteer work day. I am working on an order to Proven Winner, and some of my other favorite plant vendors. We are looking to plant trees, woody shrubs, and perennials that are beautiful and useful at preventing erosion and keeping our creek in it's banks. I will keep you posted as we will be offering a free workshop about the importance of shading and protecting your stream with strong and deep rooted plants. I will also order extra plants if anyone is interested in planting their riparian zone too. 

In hope and gratitude,

Abigail