ABOUT THE FARM
Oatka Creek Farm is a produce farm located 30 minutes southwest of Rochester in Le Roy, NY on 20 acres of historic farmland along the Oatka Creek. We farm using organic methods meaning we only use organic inputs and never use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. We focus on soil health to ensure that our crops are healthy and nutritious. We use a mix of hand methods and mechanization to ensure quality and productivity.
Ben and Carolyn are both first generation farmers, meaning neither of them grew up on a farm. They both got into organic farming as young adults and never looked back. Prior to moving to Le Roy, NY they owned and operated Raisin’ Roots Farm in Fort Collins, Colorado growing produce for their CSA program, farmers markets, as well as local restaurants and grocers. In 2022, Ben and Carolyn relocated to Le Roy, NY to be closer to family. They farm on historic farmland that has been in Carolyn’s family for eight generations.
ABOUT THE FARMERS
Growing up, Carolyn developed a love for farming by spending time with her grandparents on their family farm and hearing farm stories of different generations. She received her degree in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems from Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vermont where she was first exposed to organic vegetable production and animal husbandry. Carolyn also has a degree in English and is an avid reader. Food and farming books are staples in her home library, but her favorite genres are (unapologetically) fantasy and historical fiction.
After graduating college she moved to Colorado to explore the west and farm in a different type of climate. She met Ben in Fort Collins, Colorado in 2018 and began farming with him at Raisin’ Roots Farm.
Carolyn Fitzgerald
Ben has studied resilient farming methods from producers across different regions including Maryland, Oregon, and Colorado. He holds a BA in Anthropology from Towson University.
He is proud to implement both new and old ideas and technologies while remaining a perpetual student. Ben served as President of the Larimer County Farmers Alliance, a chapter of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, for three years during which he worked on land access issues, technical education, and coalition building between producers.
When he’s not building or repairing something around the farm, Ben can be found reading science fiction or refereeing college soccer. Ben brings a sense of humor to most things in life but especially vegetable farming.
Ben Pfeffer
Raisin
Raisin works hard to keep deer out of the fields when the farmers need their rest. As property guardian, one must get into Raisin’s good graces to achieve free range on the farm under her watchful eye. She is a 13 year old farm veteran, and is enjoying her golden years in beautiful Western New York.
