Poplar Ridge Farm

Poplar Ridge Farm, established in 1992, was developed by Marianne Battistone and Philip Norwood as an extension of their personal lifestyles and career studies. Both athletes and advocates of the organic food movement, they built the farm in Sandy Ridge Township, Union County, NC, in 1994. Over the years, the farm became one of the largest CSA operations in North Carolina, supplying produce to local families and restaurants until its merger with Sports Dance Fitness, Inc. in 2021.

The farm has been maintained with OMRI-approved organic principles since its inception. The land has been farmed sustainably and in an environmentally conscious manner, focusing on organic farming methods. The farm's primary operation was Community Supported Agriculture, with a strong emphasis on environmental and nutritional education.

Poplar Ridge Farm offers full-share and half-share memberships, with produce available for pickup during Market Stand hours. The farm also supplies organic produce to Charlotte restaurants and offers tours, special events, and educational programs. In 2022, the farm began participating in Schoolyard Garden Programs, continuing its commitment to health and fitness education.