There is nothing more pleasing to me than riding through the Hudson Valley and neighboring areas simply to admire our local farms and orchards. The earth in our Hudson Valley has sustained us for centuries, and witnessing working farms and orchards is extremely comforting. It’s a reassuring feeling to realize that these farms and orchards have provided for us and will continue to provide us with their abundance and beauty.
When you’re journeying through the Hudson Valley, take a moment to marvel at the diversity of our farms and orchards. Whether it’s sheep grazing on a hillside in Columbia County, grapes growing in a Dutchess County vineyard, dairy cows grazing in a Delaware County pasture, rows of corn along the banks of the Wallkill River in Ulster County, or fruit-laden orchards in any of our Hudson Valley counties, each sight is a unique testament to the region’s natural beauty.
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When you find yourself in the Black Dirt Region around Warwick and Pine Island in Orange County, take a moment to experience the unique soil. Grab a handful and let it run through your fingers. The distinct look and feel of this soil will leave an indelible mark on your memory.
It’s truly inspiring to see how our local farms have embraced new and beneficial farming techniques and concepts: Sustainable farming, natural and organic methods, biodynamic and diversified soil management, green farming, and humane treatment of farm animals, to name a few.
By choosing to purchase local produce and fruit, meats and poultry from our local farms and orchards, you’re not just doing something good for yourself, but also for your Hudson River Valley community. Whether it’s at farmers markets, farmstands , pick-your-own farms and orchards, or from vendors selling locally grown products, your support matters. Joining a Community Supported Agriculture program or dining at restaurants that use local ingredients further strengthens our community bond.
Supporting our local growers helps keep us and the Hudson Valley healthy and beautiful. I tip my hat to the families whose lives are engaged in the stewardship of such a grand, natural gift. Here’s to you, farm folks!
The Sojourner
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