by Thabisa Mazur, Harvest Pierce County Program Manager
The Goss Incubator Farm is a 4-acre farm, located in Orting on ancestral territory of the Puyallup tribe. It serves as a “launching pad” for beginning farmers and an extension of Pierce Conservation District’s Farm Foundations Program. The Goss Incubator Farm is in its 3rd year of operation and currently all 12 plots are brimming with vegetables, flowers, and native pollinators.
The farm supports 11 farm businesses. Farmers from around the world grow culturally treasured varieties of greens, corn, potatoes, tomatoes, flowers, medicinal tea, and more.
Several farmers noticed rodent damage on some crops this spring. Thankfully, a long-tailed weasel has taken up residence nearby! Weasels are carnivorous and will be an incredible collaborator in naturally managing rodent pressure at the farm. It is tremendously exciting to see the farm’s ecosystem work in harmony with increased care and stewardship.
Access to affordable land wand water, as well as access to infrastructure is a significant barrier to budding businesses for new farmers. This year we’ve focused on setting up a covered wash and pack station, expanding tool storage and an on-farm tool library, and adding a second walk-in cooler. Currently, we are working on greenhouse improvements and creating a green waste management system. We look forward to ramping up support for businesses and marketing, professional development, and increasing resources to better implement conservation practices as we continue to support the plants and living beings growing together.
Harvesting veggies and knowledge at the Goss Incubator Farm!