Rensselaer County

Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge

 All Cropseyville Listings

 Cropseyville Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge

12052, Farms, organic CSA farm, chemical-free vegetables, meats, U-Pick, Flowers, Herbs, Strawberries, Fruits, Pastured chickens and turkeys, Vegetables, Educational Activities, Cooking ideas, recipes, Educational School Tours, Visit Farm  Animals | Rensselaer Homestead Farms "Organic CSA and Pick-Your-Own"

518-279-9867
  Homestead Farms, an organic CSA farm offering chemical-free vegetables, flowers, and meats, is located at 3842 NY Route 2, Cropseyville, NY 12052, Rensselaer County in the upper-Hudson Valley.

From Homestead Farms: "Our beautiful 18th Century family farm is located on 150 acres of rolling hills in the town of Brunswick New York at the base of the Grafton Plateau. Rich, Linda and Sarah Bulson raise vegetables, cut flowers and pasture raised poultry, pork and grass-fed beef using sustainable farming methods. All of our products are chemical, antibiotic and hormone free. We see value in knowing where your food comes from, how it’s grown and who grows it. Our family farms with a deep respect for the land and the animals we raise on it. By farming sustainably we are making a commitment to protect the land from chemicals and improve the soil by using compost and cover crops, ensuring its productivity for years to come. We strive to work with nature instead of against it. For instance, weeds and insect pests are controlled using crop rotation, animal rotation, mulch, cover crops, row covers, hoeing, and by creating habitats for beneficial insects." Homestead Farms  "Organic CSA and Pick-Your-Own" | Rensselaer  website and more . . .
 All Hoosick Falls Listings

 Hoosick Falls Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge

12090, Farm, Farmer's Pledge Certified farm, Hoosick Falls, fresh, organic, local and sustainably-grown food, year-round access to farm food, internet buyers club, activities at Hay Berry Farm, U-Pick, Products, Basil, dill, parsley, Blueberries, tomatoes | Rensselaer Hay Berry Farm "Organic CSA Farm"

518-285-9039
  Hay Berry Farm, a Farmer's Pledge Certified farm, is located at 1176 Babcock Lake Road, Hoosick Falls, NY 12090, Rensselaer County in the upper-Hudson Valley.

From Hay Berry Farm: "Good news for those who like fresh, organic, local and sustainably-grown food. I’m excited that we can now provide year-round access to farm food via our new internet buyers club. The selection is large, and will increase in the spring when your neighboring farmers can add their products to the choices. There are currently over 3000 choices of fruit, vegetables, meat, drinks, flour, herbs, bread, cheese, etc. The price is reasonable and there is no fee to join. Buyers order on an internet website and pick up their order on Babcock Lake Road in Hoosick." Hay Berry Farm  "Organic CSA Farm" | Rensselaer  more . . .

12090, Farm, offering organic grass-fed meat, Hoosick Falls, NY, animals are raised on pasture with lots of room to move and in healthful, low-stress conditions, Heritage Beef, Products, Grass-fed Certified Organic Beef | Rensselaer Tilldale Farm "Grass-Fed Organic Beef"

518-686-7779
  Tilldale Farm, offering organic grass-fed meat, is located at 22 Tilley Lane, Hoosick Falls, NY 12090, Rensselaer County in the upper-Hudson Valley.

From Tilldale Farm: Know the origins of your Food
"Tour the farm and meet the farmer. See how the animals are raised on pasture with lots of room to move and in healthful, low-stress conditions. As they are certified organic, they have never been exposed to hormones, antibiotics, nor had any synthetic ingredients in their feed. They have spent their whole life on the pasture, except during the winter when they are cared for in the barn because it is too cold to leave them outside. See the fresh water provided at all times, the vibrant pasture, and the rotational grazing system used to maintain the pasture. We provide a sanctuary for wildlife by only tilling 100 out of 300 acres of the farm. This unused land provides pollinators and keeps the ecological balance on our farm. Since becoming certified organic, Danny Tilley, the farmer, has observed an incredible increase in the wildlife from rabbits to insects, deer, and birds. Tilldale Farm  "Grass-Fed Organic Beef" | Rensselaer  website and more . . .
 All Petersburg Listings

 Petersburg Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge

12138, Family Farm, Farmer's Pledge farm, Grass-fed all natural beef, Petersburgh, NY, natural, pasture-based farming using sustainable agricultural practices, Products, 100% Family, 100% Grass-Fed All Natural Beef | Rensselaer Grayson Family Farm

518-708-3821
  Grayson Family Farm, a Farmer's Pledge farm offering 100% Grass-fed all natural beef, is located at 109 Fox Hollow Road, Petersburgh, NY 12138, Rensselaer County in the upper-Hudson Valley.

From Grayson Family Farm: "Grayson Family Farm, LLC is a family owned, family run farm with a passion for natural, pasture-based farming using sustainable agricultural practices. Everything that goes into raising our beef cattle is done by our family members. The farm team is unified by two sisters, their husbands and their children. Grayson Family Farm | Rensselaer  website and more . . .
 All Schaghticoke Listings

 Schaghticoke Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge

12154, Farm, organic agriculture, certified by NOFA, Schaghticoke, family farmers,  organic agriculture, national organic standards, Certified Naturally Grown, organic management and CSA marketing, Why CSA, CSA concept | Rensselaer Denison Farm "NOFA-NY Organic CSA"

518-664-2510
  Denison Farm, fully committed to organic agriculture and certified by NOFA, is located at 333 Buttermilk Falls Road, Schaghticoke, NY 12154 in Rensselaer County.

From Denison Farm: "We are family farmers, Brian and Justine Denison, our children Suzanna and Maggie. We have been in NY State for nine years, having moved here from Maine, where for 16 years, we grew over 100 acres of mixed vegetables. Brian is also a forester out of the University of Maine and Justine has taught elementary school, works on the farm, and is a musician. Denison Farm  "NOFA-NY Organic CSA" | Rensselaer  website and more . . .

 More Hudson Valley  Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Albany Albany County
      [5 listings over 4 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Columbia Columbia County
      [14 listings over 11 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Dutchess Dutchess County
      [10 listings over 9 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Greene Greene County
      [4 listings over 3 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Orange Orange County
      [6 listings over 4 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Putnam Putnam County
      [1 listing over 1 location]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Rockland Rockland County
      [2 listings over 2 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Ulster Ulster County
      [11 listings over 8 locations]


Organic Farms | Farmers Pledge | Westchester Westchester County
      [19 listings over 16 locations]



Organic Farms
Apples, Fruits, Vegetables
Organic U-Pick & Pick-Your-Own
Rensselaer County in the Hudson Valley

Find the best Farmers' Markets and organic farms in Rensselaer County. Visit U-Pick farms, also known as pick-your-own farms in Rensselaer, NY and the wider Hudson Valley. There are many local farms and Farmers' Markets offering the best organic apples, berries, fruits, and vegetables; and they need your support!

A farm is an area of land, often referred to as an acre or hectare (1 hectare = 2.47105 acres) devoted almost exclusively to the practice of growing crops, rearing animals, and dealing with agriculture. Farms vary greatly in the amount of land that is used for farming. When a farm produces products such as apples or grapes, a farm may be called an orchard or vineyard.

As defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, "Organically grown food is food grown and processed using no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Pesticides derived from natural sources (such as biological pesticides) may be used in producing organically grown food . . . "Organic production is a system that is managed in accordance with the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA) of 1990 and regulations in Title 7, Part 205 of the Code of Federal Regulations to respond to site-specific conditions by integrating cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. The National Organic Program (NOP) develops, implements, and administers national production, handling, and labeling standards."

In other words, "Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved."

    National Standards on Organic Agricultural Production and Handling
    "The National Standards on Organic Agricultural Production and Handling (NOP rule) was issued on December 21, 2000, by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. The standards in the NOP rule are similar to most of the standards organic producers and handlers currently use, and are intended to be flexible enough to accommodate the wide range of operations and products grown and raised in every region of the United States. The Organic Foods Production Act and the NOP rule require that agricultural products labeled as organic originate from farms or handling operations certified by a state or private agency that has been accredited by USDA." The Organic Foods Production Act does not address food safety or nutrition.

    "Food labels must be in compliance by early 2001.

    "The NOP rule prohibits the use of genetic engineering (included in the list of excluded methods), ionizing radiation, and sewage sludge. The rule includes the following:

    • "Production and handling requirements, which address organic crop production, wild crop harvesting, organic livestock management, and processing and handling of organic agricultural products
    • "The National List of Allowed Synthetic and Prohibited Non-Synthetic Substances (7 CFR 205.600-205.606)
    • "Labeling requirements for organic products
    • "Compliance, testing, fee, and state program approval requirements
    • "Certification and recordkeeping requirements
    • "Accreditation requirements for receiving and maintaining accreditation, as well as requirements for foreign accreditation
    • "Other administrative functions of the National Organic Program, which include evaluation of foreign organic certification programs."

    Source: Environmental Protection Agency.

While some farms are completely organic, others use synthetic components to assist with the growth of crops and livestock.

Many farms practice organic and/or sustainable farming in Rensselaer County and the wider Hudson River Valley, where you can buy fresh and healthy local produce. For a special treat, pick-your-own fruits and vegetables at one of many U-Pick farms listed below.

Local farms offer fresh and healthful produce; while organic farms also contribute to a healthy and sustainable environment. Enjoy selections of fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other farm fresh products. Buy produce at one of the Hudson Valley markets, or pick-your-own fruit and vegetables at an organic farm in the Hudson Valley.

Visit one or more organic farms and u-pick farms in Rensselaer County. You'll find farms in Altamont, East Greenbush, Schodack, Schaghticoke and Petersburg in the upper-Hudson Valley of New York State.

Farms in Rensselaer County sell a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including delicious New York apples, berries, pumpkins and U-Pick produce. In addition to pick-your-own fruits, many local farms have acres of delicious vegetables available for you to pick; or you can buy picked produce at the farms market stand or market store.

Many farm markets offer a wide range of fresh jars of honey, jams and chutney. Many pick-your-own apples, offer fresh apple cider or a hot cup of coffee to go with the delicious freshly made donuts . . . yum. You can also find local crafts, cheeses, soups, and other specialty items that are charming and made locally.

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is available at some farms in Rensselaer County. Community Supported Agriculture is when people agree to purchase a share of the anticipated crop at a farm. If the farm is organic, the farmer agrees to supply the members with a fresh assortment of high quality certified organic produce. The shareholders commitment implies a willingness to share with the farmer both the bounty from the land and some of the risks of its production.

    Why Buy Organic?
    Organic products meet stringent standards. Organic certification is the public’s assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures without persistent toxic chemical inputs.

    Organic food tastes great.
    It’s common sense. Well-balanced soils produce strong, healthy plants that become nourishing food for people and animals.

    Organic production reduces health risks.
    Many EPA-approved pesticides were registered long before extensive research linked these chemicals to cancer and other diseases. Organic agriculture is one way to prevent any more of these chemicals from getting into the air, earth and water that sustain us.

    Organic farms respect our water resources.
    The elimination of polluting chemicals and nitrogen leaching, done in combination with soil building, protects and conserves water resources.

    Organic farmers build healthy soil.
    Soil is the foundation of the food chain. The primary focus of organic farming is to use practices that build healthy soils.

    Organic farmers work in harmony with nature.
    Organic agricultural respects the balance demanded of a healthy ecosystem: wildlife is encouraged by including forage crops in rotation and by retaining fence rows, wetlands, and other natural areas.

    Organic producers are leaders in innovative research.
    Organic farmers have led the way, largely at their own expense, with innovative on-farm research aimed at reducing pesticide use and minimizing agriculture’s impact on the environment.

    Organic producers strive to preserve diversity.
    The loss of a large variety of species (biodiversity) is one of the most pressing environmental concerns. The good news is that many organic farmers and gardeners have been collecting and preserving seeds, and growing unusual varieties for decades.

    Organic farming helps keep rural communities healthy.
    USDA reported that in 1997, half of U.S. farm production came from only 2% of farms. Organic agriculture can be a lifeline for small farms because it offers an alternative market where sellers can command fair prices for crops.

    Organic abundance – Foods and non-foods alike.
    Now every food category has an organic alternative. And non-food agricultural products are being grown organically – even cotton, which most experts felt could not be grown this way.

    Source: Organic Trade Association.

Select one or more farms to visit at local farms in Rensselaer County and go apple, berry, or pumpkin picking in Rensselaer County. Farmer's markets and pick-your-own farms are available throughout the county of Rensselaer in the upper-Hudson Valley. Find farm markets for all seasons offering many wonderful items including homegrown seasonal fruits & produce such as apples, peaches, apricots, nectarines, pears, plums, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes & corn. Some farms are open through late December selling Christmas trees and other seasonal items.

Many children enjoy going to a local pick-your-own farm where the kids can pick seasonal fruits and vegetables such as raspberries, blueberries, apples, and pumpkins for Halloween. Many pick-your-own farms offer additional outdoor activities for the kids including:

    Apple, Berry, Pumpkin Picking
    Corn Maze - free for all ages
    Farm animals to pet and feed
    Hayrides
    Picnic Tables
    Pick winter squash / pumpkins

Visit organic farms in Rensselaer County. Some farms offer healthy organic produce with more farms working toward becoming organic or getting a Farmers Pledge certification. Organic farms offer healthy produce including fruits, vegetables, organic meats, poultry, eggs, and more.

Several pick-your-own farms have beautiful views of the hills and mountains of Rensselaer County, offering kids a wonderful time outdoors "picking their own food". Pick-you-own farms are great fun for children and kids of all ages.

    The "buy local" movement is quickly taking us beyond the promise of environmental responsibility that the organic movement delivered, and awakening us to the importance of community, variety, humane treatment of farm animals, and social and environmental responsibility in regard to our food economy.

    Farmers' Markets are one of the oldest forms of direct marketing by small farmers. From the traditional "Mercados" in the Peruvian Andes to the unique street markets in Asia, growers all over the world gather weekly to sell their produce directly to the public. In the last decade they have become a favorite marketing method for many farmers throughout the United States, and a weekly ritual for many shoppers.

    In a Farmers' Market, farmers sell their products once or twice a week at a designated public place like a park or parking lot. Some Farmers' Markets have live entertainment. Shopping at a Farmers Market is a great way to meet local farmers and get fresh, flavorful produce. Many farms have set-up farm markets on their own farm. In addition to fresh picked fruits and vegetables, Farmers’ Markets often sell crafts and other locally made products.

    Farmers' Markets provide a means for local producers of agricultural products to sell those products directly to the consumer. Many communities throughout New York State view Farmers Markets as a positive avenue for supporting local agriculture, providing a source of fresh fruits and vegetables to the residents of their community, and as a means of drawing people into their community aiding in the economic redevelopment of an area.

The Farmers’ Market Federation of New York is a statewide not-for-profit organization designed to both promote and provide support services for the Farmers' Markets within New York State. The Federation was formed through the collective efforts of market managers throughout the state, Cooperative Extension, and the Department of Agriculture & Markets, and was initially funded by a Federal State Marketing Improvement Grant in early 1998.

Large-scale chemical agriculture continues to poison our soil and our water, and weaken our communities. Buying directly from a family farm can help put a stop to this unfortunate trend. By purchasing organic produce from your local farmer, you are working to maintain a healthy environment, a vibrant community, and a strong and sustainable local economy for you and for your family.

Organic and Local Food
The freshest, healthiest, most flavorful organic food is food that is grown locally. Organically grown food is free from exposure to harmful chemicals; but that is only one part of the importance of organic products. A larger part of Organic Agriculture involves the health of the soil and of the ecosystems in which crops and livestock are raised. Organic Agriculture is born from the idea that a healthy environment significantly benefits crops and the health of those consuming them. In addition, organic practices are also viable in the long term, since they are efficient in their use of resources. Unlike large scale "chemical agriculture", Organic Agriculture does not damage the environment and our local community.

Visit your local Farmers' Market and experience the colorful abundance of nutritious, high quality locally grown foods, the aroma of fresh produce and the friendly banter of farmers and customers, neighbors and families. A visit to a Farmers' Market is an adventure, and among the fun things to do in your own community. Bring the children. Children love visiting their local farmer's market where they can meet the farmers, ask questions, and learn about the food. Farmers' Markets also provide a lesson in supporting your own community and the environment.

Both economic and health factors have resulted in the growth of Farmers' Markets across the country. Not only is a completely new generation of farmers seeking retail outlets that increase their profitability and viability thus preserving agriculture for themselves and future generations, but also, consumers are discovering that Farmers' Markets are a fun, reasonably priced, alternative to supermarkets. At Farmers' Markets they have direct access to fresh, healthy local foods and to the farmers who produce the foods. The experience inevitably includes developing relationships and friendships with the farmers and gaining an understanding and appreciation of where their food comes from and how it is produced.

Use the Local Harvest website on the Farmers' Markets & Local Farms page to find Farmers' Markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in your area, where you can buy organic produce, grass-fed meats, and many other delicious and healthy foods.




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