Hearty Roots Community Farm

Hearty Roots Community Farm, a first-generation farm in Clermont, NY, began in 2004 on a small rented plot and has grown to over a hundred acres of vegetable fields and pastures. Founded by Ben and Lindsey Lusher Shute, the farm has expanded its land base and operations over the years, including the acquisition of 96 acres in Red Hook in 2024. The farm's land has a rich history, once inhabited by the Mohican tribe and later managed by various families, with a conservation easement now in place to protect it as farmland.

Hearty Roots adheres to certified organic practices, prioritizing the long-term health of soil, air, water, and the broader ecosystem. The farm pays fair wages, maintains worker-friendly policies, and supports training for new farmers. Their farming philosophy emphasizes stewardship of the land, ensuring that their practices benefit both the environment and the community.

The farm's core is its CSA program, offering members a variety of fresh produce from June to October, with pick-up locations in Woodstock, Kingston, and New York City. Hearty Roots also operates an on-site Farm Market, selling their own produce and products from neighboring farms. The market is open year-round, providing a range of organic vegetables, flowers, pastured eggs, and regional farm products. Additionally, they offer seedlings for sale each spring.