Whether you’re on the hunt for locally-grown produce, a fun weekend activity, or you want to learn a little more about agriculture, one of Chester County’s important industries, the annual Chester County Farm Guide has it all!
The Farm Guide highlights more than125 family-owned farms and markets throughout Chester County, spotlights the County’s Agriculture Award recipients, and includes a Farm Product Calendar showcasing what’s in season, and various tips and resources.
Commenting on the importance – and value – of the 2024 magazine, Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe said, “Supporting our local farmers and their businesses helps to ensure that Chester County’s farms are here to stay now and into the future.
With summer right around the corner, now is the perfect time to take a look at the new edition of the Chester County Farm Guide.
In the latest guide you can read about Dr. Kevin Hicks: A Friend to the Forest and recipient of the Duncan Allison Distinguished Service to Ag Award who went from solving problems in the lab, to solving problems on a farm. “Dr. Hicks is a wonderful ambassador for sustainable forestry,” noted the County Commissioners. “He cares deeply for the environment and is a true role model for what’s possible in Chester County’s forested acres and beyond.”
Also in the Guide, farmer Robert Todd discusses changing people’s minds about eating local through his Downingtown-based farm, Down to Earth Harvest, which operates on a CSA (community supported agriculture) model.
Farmer of the Year recipients, The Miller Family of Birchrun Hills Farm in West Vincent Township, are recognized for their dynamic business model, commitment to sustainable farming practices, and local food system advocacy. Their “cheesy” Friday happy hours provide a great opportunity for supporting a local farm, all while catching up with friends and enjoying locally produced accompaniments.
And Kyle Jones of The Acadian Wine Company in West Grove (formerly Kreutz Creek Winery) talks about the way he showcases Pennsylvania’s robust and varied wine flavors through pairing events, live music, classes, and other immersive experiences.
Other highlights of the 2024 Chester County Farm Guide include Family Friendly Recipes from Penn State Extension’s Nutrition Links Program, as well as Q&A with Chester County Parks + Preservation’s Agricultural Program Coordinator, Geoff Shellington.
The free Chester County Farm Guide is available online at www.chescofarming.org, and will be available at libraries, township and County offices, Kimberton Whole Foods locations, and at select farm stands across the county.
