By Blake Jackson
Northeast SARE is expanding its outreach to new agricultural communities, focusing on sustainable practices and inclusivity. Their recent efforts included a visit to Lancaster County to engage with Amish farmers, who are known for their unique and sustainable farming models.
The visit involved tours of three farms: two dairy operations and a flower farm, all managed by young Amish farmers. The dairy farms specialized in producing A2/A2 organic milk with herds of 30-40 cows, while the flower farm was primarily operated by Amish women.
These farms exemplified a commitment to sustainable agriculture, aligning with Northeast SARE's mission to support environmentally sound farming practices.
Northeast SARE, which funds farmer-driven agricultural innovations, also provides valuable educational resources. Recognizing that the Amish community does not typically use internet-based information, SARE adapted its outreach strategy.
Instead of relying on digital platforms, they conducted an in-person visit, compiled a list of relevant resources, and offered them to the community for request.
The Amish farmers expressed interest in building a resource library to support sustainable agriculture within their community. They selected publications such as "Farmers’ Guide to Business Structures," "Systems Research for Agriculture," "Building Soils for Better Crops," and "Manage Weeds on Your Farm." This initiative represents a tailored approach to knowledge sharing, respecting the community's cultural preferences.
This effort is part of Northeast SARE’s ongoing commitment to broadening its reach and fostering relationships with diverse agricultural communities.
By adapting their communication methods and providing relevant resources, SARE aims to support the Amish farmers' sustainable practices and learn from their traditional farming techniques. This collaboration underscores SARE's dedication to inclusivity and the promotion of sustainable agriculture across the Northeast region.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business