Christa Barfield, founder of FarmerJawn, is continuing to make major strides in several agricultural initiatives, including  Westtown market, FarmerJawn CSA production, Kensington CornerJawn store, and a future agricultural research hub in West Chester, writes Leigh Green for PA Eats. 

She also won a 2024 James Beard Award, one of the nation’s most prestigious food culture awards. 

Now, she is preparing for a very busy rest of the year. 

“We’re growing at both of our farms [Elkins Park and Westtown],” said Barfield. “Healing the land is a top priority. Elkins will be certified organic by the fall of 2024 and Westtown in the fall of 2025. We have planned for 64 acres across both locations for this season that we’re farming between vegetable production and grain.” 

Another priority for Westtown is engaging the community and creating new things that do not exist. 

“We have an 18,000-square-foot space and we’re going to make it a hub for all ages and families to be able to come and learn about agriculture research and innovation,” said Barfield. 

Meanwhile, West Chester market will have its grand opening on May 24. It will be open five days a week, which will increase to seven once the kitchen is fully operational. 

Read more about FarmerJawn’s dedication to agriculture in the state in PA Eats. 

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