It's hard to imagine that not too long ago, this area had many vibrant farms yielding a variety of products. One of those originial farms is actually still in existence, and is right in our own backyard. The Manahawkin U-Pick Berry Farm is a great way to spend a couple of hours with your kids...a real change of pace from the usual activities & hectic lifestyles.

Along with allowing visitors to pick seasonal produce such as strawberries, blackberries & raspberries, the farm offers other family fun events throughout the year such as their 2nd annual Easter Egg Hunt, going on now. There's usually a few farm animals around as well which add to the whole "farm" experience. And, you might even get a history lesson about area farms from the owner, a man who purchased the farm years ago, restoring the home on it (when everyone told him to rip it down). He -- and the family who runs it for him -- are committed to keeping it active & productive.

When you get to the farm, you'll see Jodi who runs the farm with her family. She always has a few items for sale - whether its fresh produce or honey products from her own farm in Mayetta, or hand-made crafts such as beautiful palm crosses available now for Easter.

Although the season for picking produce is between May - October, the farm is open now on a limited basis for their 2nd annual Easter Egg hunt. The Easter Egg hunt is going on March 24, 25, & 31 - and - April 1, 6, & 7 from 9 am - 5 pm. Groups are welcome mid-week. For available dates call Jodi 609-661-0298. Walk out to the Easter Bunny field where your child can pick the amount of eggs you set as the limit. You may also pick your choice of prizes from the number selected on the egg. Prizes are snacks appropriate for all ages.

Strawberries are available for picking in June, raspberries & blackberries in July. Note that these dates are all weather dependent. Please call 609-661-0298 to verify. Manahawkin U-Pick Berry Farm is located at 178 Beachview Avenue in Manahawkin. From Barnegat, take Rt. 9 towards Manahawkin (sometimes they'll have a sign on the corner), and make a right on Beachview. The entrance to the farm is about a mile down on your right.

Jodi's farm in Mayetta - Cedar Swale Farms - will have fresh peas available around May, as well as fresh spinach and salad greens. Vegetable, herbs & flower plants are also available. Again, all availabilities mentioned are weather dependent so please call Jodi at 609-597-1629 to verify.

The Truex family thanks every single person that came to the farm last year, they appreciate you all and wish you a Happy Easter.