I've been aware of Soil Born Farms for some time now as an organic urban oasis (on Hurley near Watt), but I just learned recently about the biodynamic farm at Rudolf Steiner College in Fair Oaks. Biodynamics may be new to you, but it's a long-standing agricultural practice from Europe that predates the modern organic movement in the U.S. (For more on biodynamics, see the upcoming spring Edible Sacramento issue!)

The 3-acre Raphael Garden was started in 1987 by Harald Hoven at the college as a way to grow medicinal herbs. It has grown into a diverse and self-sustaining business through Harald's teaching and apprenticeship program. In 1993, they started a CSA that now has a waiting list! You can also buy seeds from Raphael Garden through Turtle Tree Seed Initiative.

As a biodynamic farm, Raphael has livestock: a cow, several sheep, ducks, and chickens. They help to provide manure and eat weeds, and the early childhood education center there brings children to see the animals throughout the year. There are also honeybees, who pollinate and give honey in return. It's a lovely example of everything working together to make a better whole.

You won't find Raphael produce at a farmer's market, but you can go visit the farm, try your luck at getting on the CSA list, or learn more about biodynamics in the workshop series that runs through June. Just contact Harald at 916-965-0389 or visit the Web site for more information. They have brand new lambs and there will be a calf any day now!