Beneficial Farms CSA

Biodynamic farm focusing on community supported agriculture (CSA) and cooperative farming.
Beneficial Farms CSA

Contact

  • Dena Aquilina
  • (505) 585-5127

Quick Facts

    Started
    1994

Where to Buy

Nothing listed, contact the farm for more info
Po Box 30044, Santa Fe, NM 87592
Directions

Products

No products listed

Breeds + Varieties

No varieties listed

About the Farm

Background

Mesa Top Farm, originally known as Beneficial Farm, has been a cornerstone of New Mexico's local food system since 1994. In early 2020, the farm expanded its network to include the entire state and rebranded as New Mexico Harvest. This evolution reflects a deep commitment to connecting farmers with the community, ensuring a steady supply of local, nourishing food. By 2021, it became one of the first food hubs in the country to achieve Harmonized GAP+ certification, underscoring its dedication to food safety and quality.

Practices

Situated on an off-the-grid homestead at 7,000 feet elevation in the piñon-juniper ecosystem of northern New Mexico, the farm employs rainwater catchment, photovoltaic electricity, drip irrigation, and wastewater recycling. These methods create a resource-conscious environment. The farm's approach to agriculture includes biodynamic principles, focusing on an integrated farm individuality with diverse livestock, annual and perennial crops. A small portion of the 800-acre land is used for vegetable and egg production, while the majority remains forest and wilderness. The farm also pastures a small herd of cows, offering grass-finished beef.

The Rest

Mesa Top Farm offers community living opportunities for co-workers and apprentices, fostering a collaborative environment. The farm works with 40 other regional farms as part of a cooperative CSA, allowing members to join any week of the year. Additionally, New Mexico Harvest, the evolved entity, supports local food systems by partnering with nearly 80 different farms and producers, providing benefits such as marketing support, fair pricing, and produce pickup. The farm's commitment extends to supplying locally grown food to schools, senior centers, and food banks, reinforcing its role as a key player in the state's food network.