#90 - Get Back To Your Roots at Grossmann's Farm

As you drive down Ocean or Hempstead Avenues in Malverne, you may have noticed signs of life at the historic Grossmann's Farm.

Green plants poking through the soil, a farmer toiling away on the land, a fresh coat of paint on the barn and sporadic groups of volunteers.

It's all a glimpse of bigger things to come at the five-acre stretch of land that the Grossmann family had owned and operated from 1895 to 2007 before selling to to Nassau County last year.

Judging from the turnout at a recent event to discuss the future of the farm, the community is very much excited for this landmark to begin a new chapter and our list of the Top 100 things to do in Malverne and West Hempstead would not be complete without a visit to Grossmann's.

The farm, now managed by the non-profit Nassau Land Trust, will officially open on April 30, selling fresh bedding plants at first and some produce later in the season. 

In the future, the farm plans to offer a combination of seasonal fruits and vegetables grown on site, and crops like corn which will be imported from local growers in the region. They also plan to have a selection of homemade pies and plants, which were always popular items at the farm in the past.

The goal is to eventually create a community-supported agricultural system, in which residents would subscribe for a fee to produce grown at the farm. for more details.

In response to the feedback from residents who are eager to get their hands dirty and help, the Nassau Land Trust is holding a volunteer information session on April 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the barn. (Those who can not attend this event are encouraged to stop by the farm on the afternoon of April 30 to discuss ways to get involved or contact Pennie Schwartz at (516) 599-6556.)

Already the farm has welcomed some local students who spent an afternoon working on the farm. Farmer Bill Walsh said he has also been in talks with the Girl Scouts of Nassau County to arrange an on-going volunteer program for their members.

The Land Trust anticipates having a variety of volunteer opportunities and educational programs for residents of all ages.

So mark your calendars and get ready to reconnect with Malverne's farming roots.