Farm Happenings for July 31, 2026 – Week 5

by | Aug 1, 2026 | Farm Happenings

The opening scene in the iconic film “Field of Dreams” features Kevin Costner, who as a farmer walking through his field of corn. He stops dead in his tracks when he hears from seemingly nowhere, “if you build it, he will come”.  If you haven’t seen the movie, it is tremendous.

Reportedly, during filming, Kevin asked the movie’s director, why he was selected for the role over actor Robin Williams who also auditioned. The response was, “we liked Williams, but we picked you because we don’t believe you normally hear voices in the field, whereas we are pretty sure that Robin does” (lol)

Since I was a child, riding in the back of a seat of my parent’s car or just going for a walk down our gravel road, I was compelled to look over the fields as I passed because I could feel them beckoning. Way back in the summer 2012, when I was looking for land, I drove the untamed field here at 436 River Road. A magnetic-like pull was so strong, that I found myself stopping and letting out the dogs and exploring. Hands running through the long grass as I walked.

This was the field.

The land belonged to the NCC, and long story short, my first bid for the field wasn’t accepted. Which was a good thing. I wasn’t ready for it, and it wasn’t ready for me. There were two others that tried their hand on after my initial application. Both didn’t stay long.  By chance I saw the posting by the NCC for the property and long story short, I ended up signing the lease in 2017.

Even though I came to Ottawa for my own reasons, started to farm for my own reasons and picked this field for my own reasons, I learned from my mother just after I took the property that I was farming not 5 minutes from where my Great Uncle Bert farmed. Full circle.

So here we are. The me…you…and the field. Our silent partner. She is quiet, full of life and patiently nurturing fresh vegetables for us, our families and our community -)

~Notes from the field this week: Certainly, no shortage of rain. 13” in the past 24 hours with more to come. We are tile drained, so we are essentially fine. In the week ahead, there are peaches to be had and the first sweet corn of the season has become available!  Strawberries are back and for the first time we are going to be offering Lebanese Cucumbers and there may very well be broccoli along with some red peppers. Lots to choose from, for sure!

Enjoy

~Michael

What’s New In Your Share This Week

The field is really starting to deliver! Here’s what’s newly available for your share:

  • Sweet Corn – The first of the season! Nothing says summer like fresh, juicy corn on the cob.

  • Peaches – Sweet, sun-ripened, and perfect for eating fresh or tossing into salads.

  • Lebanese Cucumbers – A first-time offering! These thin-skinned, crisp cucumbers are incredibly refreshing with a mild, sweet flavour.

Also making an appearance: Broccoli, red peppers, and strawberries (back by popular demand!).

A quick note from the field: We’ve had 13 inches of rain in the past 24 hours—but thanks to our tile drainage, we’re in good shape. The field knows what to do! 

Recipe of the Week

Peach, Corn & Cucumber Salad

Sweet peaches, crisp Lebanese cucumbers, and charred sweet corn—three summer favourites come together in this vibrant salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season’s bounty, whether you’re firing up the grill or enjoying a quiet meal on the patio.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges
  • 2 Lebanese cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
  • 2 ears of sweet corn, husked
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh mint or basil leaves, roughly torn
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions:

  1. Char the corn: Heat a grill, grill pan, or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the husked corn directly on the heat and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Cut the corn: Once cool enough to handle, stand the corn upright on a cutting board and slice the kernels off the cob. Set aside.
  3. Prep the produce: Slice the peaches into wedges, cut the Lebanese cucumbers into half-moons, and thinly slice the red onion (if using).
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
  5. Combine: In a large bowl, gently toss together the peaches, cucumbers, corn, red onion, and fresh herbs.
  6. Dress: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat—being careful not to bruise the peaches.
  7. Serve: Enjoy immediately at room temperature or chilled. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, though leftovers keep well in the fridge for a day.

     

Optional additions:

  • Crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess
  • Toasted almonds or pecans for crunch
  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra sweetness
  • Grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a full meal