Despite fire, Newton Community Farm vows to start season on time

By Evan Allen, Town Correspondent

In spite of a fire that reduced its farm stand to rubble, Newton Community Farm will kick off its spring season on schedule towards the end of April, according to farm manager Megan Talley.

The fire broke out early on Saturday morning and destroyed the roadside farm stand where Newton Community Farm usually offers fresh produce on the honor system to passers-by.

The fire is under investigation, according to Newton Assistant Fire Chief Paul Chagnon. Arson has not been ruled out.

“We’re not sure what started it,” he said. “We haven’t ruled out anything.”

Talley said that the stand was built by a previous farm manager and a volunteer, and was worth about $1,000. It was not insured, she said.

The farm stand was closed for the winter, and set to reopen with the first crops, sometime around the end of April, said Talley. While they work to rebuild, she said, they’ll still be selling produce.

“We have easy-up tents,” she said, “if all else fails.”

Historically known as the Angino Farm, the 2.25-acre plot at the corner of Nahanton and Winchester streets has been organically farmed for more than 300 years. It was purchased by the city of Newton in 2005 using Community Preservation Act funds after residents urged Newton officials not to let the city’s only remaining farm be developed. The city allows Newton Community Farm Inc., a nonprofit, to operate the farm.

Evan Allen can be reached at evan.allen@globe.com.