There’s one question we can count on getting at every on-site tour: “Will you have a garden?” We already have a number of passionate gardeners in our group and it’s clear we will be growing at least some of our own food.
As evidenced by our amazing (pre-COVID) potlucks, we collectively value access to high-quality fruits, vegetables, and produce. Given Truckee’s mountainous location (our building site is right around 5840 feet of elevation,) we are especially lucky to be so close to the vast agricultural riches of California’s central valley and Northern California’s pasture lands.
Farmers, ranchers and providers of these exceptional food sources make up Truckee’s REAL food scene. Truckee River Cohousing members share their favorite resources here.
Truckee’s Tuesday Farmer’s Market
A selection of California’s freshest produce is available right here in Truckee every Tuesday morning, 8am – 1pm, from May through October (ends this year on October 20, 2020.) Notable favorites include lettuce from Riverhill Farm, hand-produced olive oil from Towani Organic Farm, Truckee-grown mushrooms from Little Roots Farm, and 100% grass-fed beef from Bradley and Son.
Tahoe Food Hub
Tahoe Food Hub is a local non-profit with an aim to “regenerative and sustainable farming practices by increasing access to local food for North Lake Tahoe.” Their Harvest to Order program offers year-round access to local fresh produce for pickup each Friday (conveniently staggered between the weekly Tuesday market!)
Cohousing member Lisa Holan volunteers each week to assemble boxes in support of the “Giving Box” program, which provides produce food to local employees laid-off due to the pandemic. Go to their website to sign up for Harvest to Order or support the Giving Box program.
Sinclair Family Farm
Sinclair Family Farm makes monthly deliveries to Truckee of their own pasture-raised beef, goat, lamb, pork, and poultry. They also serve as an aggregator for the Sierra Foothill Producers, including products such as eggs, honey, citrus, jam, and other prepared foods. Learn more about the delivery program at their website here. PRO TIP: email farmer Karin Sinclair at karin@sinclairfamilyfarm.net to get on their mailing list.
Hole-in-One Ranch
Cohousing member Helen Pelster is known to bring a simple & succulent, slow-roasted leg of lamb to our potlucks. She orders pasture-raised lamb, beef and pork from Hole-in-One Ranch, which offers pickup or home delivery to Truckee every two weeks. Order at their website – create an account with your ZIP code for home delivery options.
New Moon Natural Foods
Locally-owned New Moon has been the anchor of ethical and sustainable food in Truckee for decades. We are fortunate to have daily, year-round access to exceptional produce and supplements. Some of their unique offerings include local bulk honey and coffee. PRO TIP: Customer Appreciation Day is always the second Sunday of the month – get up to 10% off – see their website for specifics.
BONUS: Compost Drop-Off
Feed Gardens, Not Landfills, with the year-round composting program by Keep Truckee Green! Bins are available behind Truckee Town Hall for drop off at any time – click here for composting instructions and location. Or perhaps you’d enjoy a tour of Truckee’s Community Garden? You can directly deposit your compost there from May through October. For detailed directions to the garden, click here.
