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Solar panels powering an irrigation pump.

Antique tractors converted to battery power.

No traps to capture garden-thieving varmints — only a dog who hangs around the house too much.

These are elements of organic farming, at least for Fair Share Farm northeast of Kearney. About 20 regional farmers — from having acres upon acres to a small garden in the backyard — toured the Fair Share Farm, run by Tom and Rebecca Graff, as part of a workshop in Kearney July 13.

The workshop was part of the Growing Growers program through the Kansas State University and University of Missouri extension programs. The workshop was geared toward starting and managing a community-supported agriculture — CSA — farm.

Carol Kesler, who lives nearby the Fair Share Farm, said she attended the workshop to learn more about organic farming.

“I’ve always gardened, I’ve always wondered how you do things organically,” said Kesler, who runs a 4-H group that includes her children.

She said organic gardening involves natural ways to get rid of weeds and pests.

“That’s the hardest thing to deal with — especially pests,” Kesler said.

Like sports — think soccer vs. football — organic farming has a different name outside the U.S.

“People call organic farming in other countries ‘biological farming,’” Tom Graff said beginning the tour of the farm. “It is biology.”

Organic farming uses natural methods rather than chemicals for fertilization, growth and pest control.

The organic Fair Share Farm sits on 250 acres and was started in 2002. The first year the harvest was sold at farmers markets. The second year it was operated as a community-supported agriculture project. Those involved with the farm pay a fee and volunteer hours to help on the farm. In return, they receive portions of the crop.

“You’re committing to these people all season that you’re going to feed them,” Rebecca Graff said.

The Graffs said in addition to being organic and helping the community, it’s a good way to make a living as a farmer.

“Community is the first word in ‘CSA’ and it’s really true,” Tom said. “You have a community supporting you.”

Many of the attendees at the workshop were involved in a farming apprenticeship program called Growing Growers.

“Mainly wanting to get easier access to local food,” Tim Graham said about why he is the program.

Graham of Overland Park, Kan., was at the workshop because of his apprenticeship. He’s been working on a tomato farm in Kansas City, Kan.

The Fair Share Farm list is full, but area residents can get on the waiting list or learn about openings in January by e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visiting www.fairsharefarm.com.

THE DETAILS

Other CSA, organic and local harvest farms:

Prairie Birthday Farm — Kearney: www.prairiebirthdayfarm.com

Hidden Hills Farms — Edgerton: www.hiddenhillsfarms.com

For more information on local farms visit www.localharvest.org.

For more information on the program, call 805-0362, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.growingrowers.com.

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