WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST

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FARM

Rushton Farm at Rushton Woods Preserve was our first project to use protected land for a purpose beyond its recreational value and benefit to wildlife. Using the concept of agroecology (farming with nature in mind) and using organic and regenerative farming practices, we put the land to work at Rushton Farm to feed people and further enhance the surrounding ecosystems.

The result is a productive farm that yields 30,000 pounds of fresh, healthy food each year and grows 140 varieties of fruits and vegetables for a 110-family Community Supported Agriculture program. We are proud to donate 15% of the yield at Rushton Farm to the Chester County Food Bank and West Chester Food Cupboard each year.

Because of its unique approach to agriculture, Rushton Farm has become a beloved community resource and a powerful education and outreach vehicle, attracting volunteers, students, researchers and aspiring farmers to participate throughout the seasons.

Rushton Farm is uniquely situated within the 86-acre Rushton Woods Preserve at 911 Delchester Road in Newtown Square, and is open to the public 365 days per year.

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Community Supported Agriculture

The Rushton Farm Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program serves 130 families with a weekly share of produce from the farm. Remember, you don’t have to be a member to visit Rushton Farm. For more info, including frequently asked questions, click here.

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Agroecology

Agroecology is the study of the interactions between plants, animals, humans and the environment within agricultural systems. Because of the Rushton Farm's unique setting within the larger Rushton Woods Preserve and its adjacency to one of the largest contiguous woodland tracts in Chester County, it provides a powerful demonstration of the ways in which sustainable agriculture and important natural areas can be mutually beneficial.

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Research

Our program facilitates and attracts expert researchers who seek to expand the scientific understanding and effectiveness of farming in concert with nature. Recognized nationally as a leader in the study of agroecology, our team uses our conserved lands to test and measure high-yield farming practices that benefit the surrounding ecosystem. Continue reading to see a list of research initiatives facilitated by Willistown Conservation Trust.

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Education

Rushton Farm provides internships, service learning, and education programs for students of all ages. From aspiring farmers to school children and graduate students, Rushton Farm offers a place to learn about high-yield sustainable agriculture that enhances the surrounding ecosystem. Much of the programming, including Rushton 360 and Food and Feathers, is coordinated with the Habitat, Watershed and Bird Conservation Programs, which conduct field ecology initiatives within the larger Rushton Woods Preserve.

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Share the Bounty

Rushton Farm donates 10% or more (4,000+ pounds) of its fresh produce to the Chester County Food Bank and the West Chester Food Cupboard. Henry's Garden is a 75' x 75' plot within the farm dedicated to growing vegetables for donation. This high-yield garden is managed and staffed entirely by volunteers and is named for Henry Jordan, who was instrumental in the formation of the Chester County Food Bank.

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Volunteers

Each Wednesday from mid-May through October is "just show up" Wednesday. No need to call or email, just come to Rushton Farm (911 Delchester Road, Newtown Square) between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. The farm staff will be prepared to put you to work and give you the opportunity to learn about the farm's agroecological practices.

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Newsletter

The Wild Carrot is the Rushton Farm CSA Newsletter published weekly during the growing season. Browse through past issues (along with other Trust e-publications) Click here.

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Rushton Nature Keepers

Rushton Nature Keepers is the Trust’s youth program welcoming children ages 7-12 to not only explore the land and its wildlife but to also understand their connection to the natural world. Rushton Nature Keepers offers engaging lessons taught by experts in the field throughout the year, with monthly events covering four programmatic themes including Sustainable Farming, Birds and Wildlife, Watersheds, and Healthy Habitat. More info click here.

OUR NATURE PRESERVES

Our nature preserves are open to the public 365 days per year, providing natural places that offer peace and respite for all. We will keep them open as long as it is safe to do so. While visiting our preserves, please practice social distancing and wear a mask if you encounter another person who will be closer than six feet … Learn more about our nature preserves.

Upcoming Events

22 April

Spring Migration Bird Banding

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22 April

“Love the Land” Stewardship Volunteer Thursdays

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22 April

“Kiss the Ground” Film Discussion: Why Soil Health Matters

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DONATE TODAY!

The Trust's holistic approach to land conservation, with a focus on the connections among land, farm, birds, and water, protects native habitat and provides open space for our earth to heal. Please help the Trust continue to preserve our natural world for all  generations and consider making an impactful donation … Donate Today

CONTACT

925 Providence Road
Newtown Square, PA 19073
(610) 353-2562
land@wctrust.org

OUR STORY

Willistown Conservation Trust's mission is to: "preserve and manage the open land, rural character, … read more

WHERE WE WORK

The work of the Willistown Conservation Trust is concentrated on 28,000 acres of Willistown Township … read more

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