Hawthorne Valley Farm in Riverdale CSA

Established in 1972, Hawthorne Valley Farm has grown into a well-regarded institution in upstate New York, known for its commitment to Biodynamic farming and its array of high-quality agricultural products. Over the years, the farm has expanded its operations to include a creamery, bakery, and various educational programs, all while maintaining a strong focus on ecological stewardship and community engagement.

Hawthorne Valley Farm employs Biodynamic farming methods, a regenerative approach that integrates plants, animals, water, air, and soil into a self-regulating ecosystem. The farm avoids GMOs, synthetic chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides, instead relying on natural processes to maintain soil health and fertility. Manure from the dairy herd is composted to create rich soil amendments, and crop rotations are carefully managed to support biodiversity and soil vitality. The farm's practices emphasize holistic stewardship, aiming to create a balanced and self-sustaining agricultural environment.

The farm supports a variety of educational initiatives, including farm camps and visiting student programs, which aim to connect people with the land and their food. Products from the farm are sold through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, local farmers markets, and the farm store. The farm also engages in direct marketing to foster social interactions and build long-lasting community connections. Additionally, the farm's creamery produces cheese, yogurt, buttermilk, and quark from the milk of its dairy herd, further adding value to its agricultural output.