After Thanksgiving in Sagada, Kate, Pat, Dave, and I headed to Sherry's organic farm in La Trinidad to help her build a mud oven. Our timing was a little off, as Typhoon Lando hit just as we arrived. Camping in a signal 2 typhoon....I don't necessarily recommend it. Needless to say, we were unable to construct a mud oven outside during a typhoon, so we hunkered down with our wet clothes, wood, food, and made the best of it. Sherry is an environmental volunteer and the story of the farm she works on is really special. It goes like this:
ENCA Farm has been in the Acop and Cosalan Family for three generations. It is named after Enrique and Carmen Cosalan, the second generation to operate the farm after they inherited it from their parents. They spent most of their lives tilling their farm, growing fruits, vegetables and raising animals to feed and educate their 11 children about the importance of sustainable organic farming and the history of the Ibaloi Culture.
Today the farm is experiencing rejuvenation after many years of environmental destruction due to the Santo Nino Mines and illegal logging practices. The vision for the farm is to create a space where indigenous Ibaloi Organic Farming practices are being preserved and taught throughout the community. This space will be used as a key educational venue for teaching the importance of sustainable farming, land preservation and environmental education. It will also provide a wonderful retreat for those visitors coming from the larger cities and allow them to experience the peace and serenity that comes from spending time in beautiful, natural places.
Anyone can volunteer and work at the farm through the WWOOF website: www.wwoof.org
