Our Roots
I grew up on Long Island, but at the age of 17 I became a commercial fisherman out of Montauk. That wild and windy tip of the Island became my home base until I turned 40.
After fishing I found myself starting over. I went through many challenging personal transformations, and I took on several different types of jobs. One thing lead to another, or more specifically, I was lead to a woman named Jenni. She asked me if I wanted to mow her lawn, and asked if I could do it organically. At that time, I just had a small push mower that I carted around in my pickup truck. Jenni introduced me to another woman, named Edwina von Gal, a passionate champion for the land, who taught me all about toxin free landscaping. I feel so fortunate to have found these amazing people, and to be able say I was organic from the start.
I continued to learn more about organic landscaping methods while mowing lawns as a side job. It wasn't until the birth of my first daughter that I realized I had to go through yet another transition if I was going to provide my family with the life we wanted. I started my own business, Norris Organics. The journey has not been without setbacks, but things have moved pretty quickly since then!
Learning about the microbial world of compost with Paul Wagner at the PRFCT Earth Project.
Today I am working hard to ensure the success of Norris Organics, and the properties we maintain. I continue to expand my knowledge about the complex components that make up our local ecosystem, taking courses in organic turf management and connecting with other passionate toxin-free land care professionals. I use methods prescribed by the North East Organic Farming Association (NOFA), the gold standard in organic land care strategies, and I have become a NOFA Accredited Organic Land Care Professional (AOLCP). I also help other landscape professionals learn how to change over from non-organic methods. And finally, as of 2021, we have been able to switch over to zero-emissions electric equipment for all our regular maintenance service! That means quieter communities, cleaner air, and a MUCH smaller carbon footprint! All of this, while trying to keep up with two fast growing little girls at home and trying to enjoy this gorgeous little corner of the world we call home. I wouldn’t have it any other way!
One of my greatest pleasures is watching my children explore our back yard garden. No room for toxins here!
If you or anyone you know ever has a question about organic land care, or if you are a professional looking to implement greener, cleaner ways to create beautiful landscapes, then please don't hesitate to contact me!
Jason Norris