Taking root

Newly transplanted from Boston, Luke Carneal is the interim farm manager of the Sonoma Farm at Sweetwater Spectrum. A Boston resident, Carneal saw the job listing on a farm site while on a bike tour of the west coast. He worked an interview into the intinerary, and was soon offered the job. Now he presides over the 1.5 acre farm and large greenhouse, which grows specialty microgreens for area restaurants.

He said an important part of the job is making the farm engaging for the residents, who not only consume most of the produce but help tend the garden as well. “It’s about getting them involved with the life of the farm.”

About the new hand, Executive Director Deirdre Sheerin said, “Luke’s considerable compassion and extensive farming knowledge is a great fit for the Sweetwater Spectrum community. Residents are getting to know him and he is getting to know the Sweetwater and Sonoma community.”

Sweetwater has a farm stand open to the public Saturday mornings, 730 W. Spain St.

See related story on page 20 in the upcoming June 25 edition of the Sonoma Valley Sun.