Imbolc Greetings to You from Bridie’s Farm
“The way you look at things is the most powerful force in shaping your life.”
~ John O’Donohue
News From The Land…
The site has been taking on water for most of the winter period so the ground is well-soaked but drainage is good. We are developing our systems of working ‘with’ the changing climate over the coming months including the use of chinampas, or raised islands, used in wetland agriculture.
We extend our thanks to Glastonbury Town Council’s Climate Adaptation fund, provided by Somerset Wildlife Trust who fund practical measures working towards the town’s Climate Adaptation Plan. We are implementing practical solutions such as planting native trees and plants, providing creative ideas to harvest more rainwater, and holding volunteer events on the land.
Our main track has been extended up to the south side where we are developing our workshop space & storage area. We have also added hard standing to our east field entrance for better access when we start building the barn.
Tree Planting Events Coming Up Soon
Put on your wellies and come to help us plant trees!
We are working with Reimagining The Levels as part of the Somerset Tree Strategy adopted by Somerset Council. This 10-year plan to enhance and protect Somerset trees and woodland, includes an ambitious aim to plant 240 hectares of new trees and woodland each year. Read more here: Somerset Tree Strategy Takes Root.
No experience of tree planting required. Just a willingness to enjoy practical activity on the land.
Dates for your Diary:
Saturday 8th February – Tree Planting
Sunday 23rd February – Tree Planting
Sunday 16th February – Seed Swap Sunday
Join us with other seed savers on Seedy Sunday.
“Let’s gather as seed savers, allotmenteers, growers and gardeners to share seeds, knowledge and skills and build community resilience. Let’s take positive action to preserve and grow crop varieties that suit our area and climate, and share the surplus we have.”
Where? St Benedict’s Church, Glastonbury.
When? 1:30pm – 4.30pm
Imbolc Thoughts
Imbolc coincides with St Brigid’s Day and marks the first stirrings of spring. Here at Bridie’s Farm we are honouring the new season by planting some beautiful, flame-coloured willows near the entrance to represent the flame of Bridie. St Brigid is associated with many traditions, all linked with agriculture in some form and the connection with food production. She is said to have dried her clothes on a sunbeam so we hope to see some warming sun on our soil soon.
You will see Bridie’s Farm logo incorporates the central part of the cross of St Brigid. Originally thought to mark the beginning of the lambing season and while we don’t have livestock at Bridie’s Farm, we are birthing the start of the growing season with lots of planned activities.
Ways to celebrate Imbolc:
- Weave a St Brigid cross or make a corn dolly.
- Visit a sacred well and pray for good health.
- Spring clean your home.
- Be outside in nature and plant a tree (details of our Tree Planting Events)
- Make an offering (come to the Seed Swap on Saturday 16th February)
We will leave you with a poem by Seamus Heaney:
We welcome your thoughts, input and positive energy as we continue to build this ground-enhancing project for and with the community. Contact us here.
