Oasis Springs Farm
Posted by Beth Covino on Nov 21, 2016
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On November 21st, Sarah Ward, co-owner of Oasis Springs Farm, addressed the Rotary Club of Nashua regarding her mission to provide fresh, healthy and local produce year round to the greater Nashua community through Oasis Springs Farm. Started in July 2016, the farm uses hydroponic technology to be able to grow leafy greens, lettuce and herbs year round in an enclosed unit. They are passionate about sharing this technology with others and being able to provide our community with a local source year round.
Four years ago, Sarah left her PR job to become a stay-at-home Mom to her two children. She and her husband began to learn about hydroponic gardening by starting a small garden in their basement. They were driven to learn more about growing locally when research showed that 95% of leafy greens come from California and Mexico, meaning that lettuce purchased in local grocery stores have been around for a week before being purchased.
They grow in a 40’ x 8’ recycled shipping container that is located on their property on route 111A in South Nashua. Plants are grown on vertical towers and a drip system provided plants with water and nutrients. There are no bugs, no pesticides and no herbicides used. LED lights simulate sunlight. It takes 4-5 weeks to grow lettuce.
Sarah uses three distribution channels: a weekly share program (pick up at Nashua YMCA and Great Harvest Bread); local restaurants; and retail sales through farmer’s markets.
She is eager to share the Oasis Springs Farm story. She’s happy to go to any groups to speak.