Schenk Homestead Farm

The land has been historically owned and farmed by the Schenk family since the late 1800s. Amanda Schenk Grisa, co-owner and farmer, incorporates her extensive knowledge of agriculture with her scientific background in environmental science, biology, and forestry. Her family has been farming in the Naples Hills of the Finger Lakes for five generations. Jeremiah Grisa, co-owner and farmer, brings a passion for health and sustainable living, influenced by his upbringing and formal education in biology and secondary science education.

The farm employs biodynamic and regenerative agriculture principles, focusing on improving soil health, biodiversity, and the local watershed. Practices include limited or no-tilling, integrated pest management, cover cropping, and planting diverse local variety crops. They avoid chemical herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers, instead using compost teas and compost mixes to nourish the soil. The farm also incorporates a solar energy system, minimizes irrigation, and uses green manures.

Produce is sold at the Geneva Farmer's Market, Brighton Farmers Market, local restaurants, farm markets, and directly to consumers. The farm participates in the Farmer's Market Nutrition Program and offers a 20-week CSA program. They emphasize a subsistence-based lifestyle, canning, and food preservation to sustain dietary needs in winter. The farm is home to cows, pigs, poultry, and several dogs, contributing to a vibrant farm ecosystem.