CLINTON CELEBRATES FARMS

On Saturday, June 28, 2008,100 Clinton residents attended a celebration of Clinton’s farms held at the 1777 Creek Meeting House to hear David Haight, Director of the American Farmland Trust for New York speak about the importance of planning for the protection of the town’s remaining farms. Mr. Haight told the group that they had a unique opportunity through a grant awarded by the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets to develop strategies to assist farms and ensure their survival in the future. Many positive comments and offers of support were made by residents.

The event featured a light brunch of local foods, most of which were donated by local farmers and markets, including white and chocolate milk from Hudson Valley Fresh, eggs from Knoll Krest Farm, black currant nectar from Greg Quinn, baked goods from Wild Hive Farm and strawberries from Wonderland Nursery. Beautiful flowering plants were provided by Oak Grove Farm. Phyllis Feder of Clinton Vineyard spoke about the history of their prize-winning farm. Pat Hancock explained his role as manager of Meadowland Farm, which had been in his family for many years.

After the presentations, the residents toured three local farms. The town’s only dairy farm, managed by John Conklin, on the property of the O’Leary family, was a popular stop. John Conklin’s diary operation is a part of the Hudson Valley Fresh diary cooperative, featuring milk from cows which are not fed growth hormones. Tours of Meadowland Farm, owned by Michele and Judah Kraushaar and managed by Pat Hancock, featured grass fed beef, hay and holiday trees. Phyllis and Ben Feder of Clinton Vineyard showed their orchard and wine-making center and featured samples of their highly recognized seyval blanc and cassis, made from black currants.

Clinton will sponsor more farm tours in the fall. Discussions are taking place with consultants from Greenplan, Inc. to map the town’s open space, analyze markets for agriculture, assist farmers with management issues and alter the town laws to support farming and open space protection

This event was recorded and will be re-broadcasted on Cablevision, Channel 22 for a period of time.