Episode 167: Chatham Berry Farm

Founded in 1982 by Joseph Gilbert, The Chatham Berry Farm has been providing Columbia County and the surrounding areas with local, healthy and wholesome food for over 4 decades. Starting as a fruit stand pulled by a tractor, the 25 acre farm now includes a specialty food store, a garden center, a farm kitchen, a full-service meat and seafood department, production greenhouses and even a Cidery. Joe Gilbert, a vegetable and fruit farmer, joins Nature Calls: Conversations from the Hudson Valley to talk about the history of the Chatham Berry Farm, lessons learned over time, and what the future may hold. Joe was born in New Jersey, and lived in Connecticut, before moving to Columbia County, NY. Working with a friend, they initially sold their produce in New York City, but eventually started the farm stand in1982. At that time, produce was only sold in bulk but they differentiated themselves by allowing customers to buy their produce by the 'piece'. They worked the land, focusing on creating rich soil and Improved it by composting leaves from neighboring towns on the property, tilling it into the soil every year. That approach paid off as, even today, they don't use any chemicals. They primarily grow blueberries, raspberries, herbs, and vegetables, partnering with other area farms to offer more options, and only selling retail (not wholesale). The Cidery, opened in 2016, is a relatively new addition which became very popular during the pandemic and beyond with its outdoor seating.

The Chatham Berry Farm is a family owned and operated farm that faces the same challenges of other farmers in the region. Joe describes how farmers need to be multi-talented, able to handle carpentry, electrical, and plumbing tasks to keep everything working properly in addition to knowing how to run a farm. The hours are long to keep the fields productive and weed free and to keep their prices competitive and affordable. Farmers must adhere to many regulations and face many challenges. The number of farms in Columbia County today is a small fraction of what existed in the past. Farmers learn through trial and error what works and what doesn't, and Joe shares some of the lessons he's learned over the years. While Joe and his family enjoy the farming lifestyle, he understands that the long hours are not for everyone, especially in light of the challenges associated with turning a profit. Unfortunately, most farms today do not provide the only income for farm families.

Joe's two sons, Jon and Mike, are integral in the day-to-day management of the farm business. Together, they've invested in their land, in the people they serve. as well as in the future of the entire community. Joe served on the board of Cornell Cooperative Extension for 20 years and continues to have great outreach to the local community with classes and seasonal events. The future of the farm lies in the hands of his children who will need to address the challenges of climate change, finding skilled labor and affordable housing for farm workers, among other things..

Listen to Joe to learn about the joys and challenges of farming in the Hudson Valley.

Hosts: Jean Thomas and Taly Hahn

Guest: Joe Gilbert

Photo by: Taly Hahn

Production Support: Linda Aydlett, Deven Connelly, Teresa Golden, Taly Hahn, Tim Kennelty, Amy Meadow, Annie Scibienski, Robin Smith, Eileen Simpson

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