Committee Offers Support in Local Farming Challenges

Except for seeing an occasional sign saying "Fresh eggs for sale," we may not think a lot about the local farmers in the area during the winter months. Not so for the Bernards Township Agricultural Advisory Committee (AAC), which invited local farmers to an informal, "get-to-know-you" meeting on Monday night at the municipal building.

Cathy Sorge, AAC Chairperson, wants farmers to be aware of the AAC's role as  supporter and advocate for farmland preservation and farmers' "right to farm" issues. Many of the local farmers are already familiar with the AAC, but others, like Jim Gibson, are new to Bernards Township.

The AAC Mission is: "To support the Agricultural community and its continued contribution to the quality of life in Bernards Township, by preserving agricultural land, providing advocacy for agricultural viability and promoting public education."

The AAC reports to the Town Planning Board and the Township Committee. It stays current on pending state and local regulations that would affect local farmers and meets formally four times a year. According to Sorge, it is the only one of its kind in the surrounding towns.

The local farms do much to contribute to the bucolic ambience of Bernards Township. Residents also benefit from the farm fresh products the farms provide. The farmers who attended last night's meeting produce fresh eggs, honey, apples, peaches, tomatoes, eggs, chickens, cattle, lambs and ferns.

But running a local farm is no easy task. Increasing state regulations, as well as challenging weather conditions, make it difficult. Jack Grey (Bunny Fern Farm) got a rise out of the group when sharing the operating details of his fern farm, adding, "This year I may be breaking even." Another farmer good-naturedly responded,"Breaking even - isn't that what farming is all about?"

Other than the negative effects of last year's weather and the impact of over-used pesticides, no major concerns surfaced during the evening. When asked about the town's attitude toward farming, Sorge replied that in the last six to seven years the town has become increasingly farmer friendly. "For anyone holding onto the property and who is a good steward for the property - they will do all they can for you," she said.

Residents wanting to learn more about the local farms and their produce should stop by the AAC booth at Charter Day. The AAC will have a large map showing where farms are located and information about individual farms' offerings.

It's always much more delightful to stop at a local farm stand in June than push a cart down the aisle in an over-air conditioned grocery store. And, what's better than Jersey Fresh corn and tomatoes?