About the Farm
​
Welcome to Our Farm By The Creek, a women-owned and operated hazelnut farm nestled in the heart of Ringoes, New Jersey. As one of the few hazelnut farms in the region, we pride ourselves on our philosophy of working hand-in-hand with nature to create a thriving ecosystem where every participant benefits.
Our Philosophy​
At Our Farm By The Creek, we believe in nurturing the land to cultivate healthy soil and a biodiverse ecosystem. We shun synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, opting instead to embrace regenerative organic agricultural practices that support the soil health, the environment, and our well-being.
Dedication to Regenerative Practices​​
At Our Farm By The Creek, we are committed to regenerative organic practices to cultivate our nuts, fruits, and vegetables. By avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, we create a harmonious environment. Our farming methods include crop rotation, cover cropping, composting, and integrating livestock, all enriching the soil and fostering a robust microbial community. Our sheep and goats act as natural vegetation control, while ducks and chickens serve as pest controllers, and all our animals contribute as natural fertilizers. This holistic approach allows us to produce high-quality, nutrient-dense food while supporting the health and happiness of our ecosystem, benefiting both our land and community.
​
Sanctuary for Native Flora
Our farm is not just a place of cultivation; it is also dedicated to the preservation and nurturing of native flora. We actively work to eliminate invasive species that threaten the natural balance, replacing them with native flowers and landscapes that are integral to the local ecosystem. This careful management fosters a balanced and vibrant environment where every plant and animal has its place.
​​
Farmland Preservation
Our Farm By The Creek is proud to be part of the Farmland Preservation Program. This long-term commitment ensures that our farm remains dedicated to agriculture, preserving open space for future generations. As we farm, we continually plan for the future, nurturing the land for the next generation of stewards.
​
Join Us
Discover the joy of sustainable farming and the beauty of working with nature at Our Farm By The Creek. Together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable world for all. Contact us to learn more about our practices and farm tours.
About Me
Hello! My name is Ozgur, I am the founder and driving force behind Our Farm By The Creek, a unique, women-owned hazelnut farm in Ringoes, New Jersey. My adventure began in 1998 when I planted my first garden while pursuing a PhD in Agricultural Economics.
Growing my food was a revelation that turned into a lifelong passion. Watching my then 2-year-old relish fresh tomatoes straight from the vine, and later, seeing my second child joyfully work and eat from the garden, fueled my deepening love for gardening. This passion has only grown stronger with each passing day. For many years, gardening was my cherished hobby, a joyful way to feed my family while I pursued a career as a researcher in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry. My day job and my passion for gardening had an interesting synergy; they continually inspired and fed each other. Analyzing healthcare data deepened my curiosity and understanding of the vital connection between healthy eating and overall well-being. The more I advanced in my career, the stronger my desire to cultivate my food and connect with nature.
In 2021, this passion led me to an incredible opportunity: becoming the steward of 80 acres of preserved farmland. I was determined to truly understand the land, so I walked it twice daily for a year, meticulously recording everything—what grows, soil fertility, water issues, and erosion patterns—before deciding what to cultivate. After extensive research and connecting with Rutgers University's hazelnut breeding program, I decided to focus on hazelnut farming. After all, hazelnuts hold a special place in my heart as I grew up in Turkey, the world's largest hazelnut provider.
I am deeply passionate about the world we live in and the food we consume. My philosophy is simple yet profoundly powerful: when we nurture and honor our Earth, she in turn sustains and flourishes us. My ultimate goal is to create a harmonious and thriving ecosystem where every element, every plant, every creature, and every human being has a purposeful and cherished role to play.
​
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.