Rep Kate Hogan (D-Stow), Sen. Robyn Kennedy, Sen. Jamie Eldridge and MA Rural Affairs Director Ann Gobi led members of the Special Commission on Agriculture in the Commonwealth in the 21st Century and municipal leaders on a tour of several farms, farm stands and orchards in the Third Middlesex District. At the conclusion of the tour, members of the MA Fruit Growers Association presented Rep. Hogan with the Dr. Ron Prokopy Award for her support of agriculture in Massachusetts.
The tour visited Bolton Orchards and the Nicewicz Family Farm in Bolton, as well as Shelburne Farm and Honey Pot Hill Orchards in Stow. Farmers shared insight into the farming process, discussed challenges, and shared their perspectives. The visits provide context for the work that the 21st Century Agriculture Commission is doing that will guide the Legislature as it considers challenges, solutions and opportunities for agriculture in Massachusetts.
At Bolton Orchards, owner Joel O’Toole discussed challenges such as climate change and the steps he has taken to diversify his farm’s offerings. Ken Nicewicz shared his perspective on land conservation, as well as the use of clean energy to fuel farm machinery and the important work of agriculture advocacy. Ted Painter at Shelburne Farm explained the critical role that the UMass Extension program plays on farms across the Commonwealth and Honey Pot Hill Orchards Owner Chelcie Martin discussed labor and other challenges that come with running an agriculture business in Massachusetts.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Massachusetts Fruit Growers Association for efforts to ensure our farms can adapt to changing economic, climate, and energy conditions. I strongly believe that government can and must assist our farmers to ensure a sustainable future for small farms and all of the interconnected economies, industries and people that depend upon them.” said Rep. Hogan.
