Patroon Land Foundation moving forward

From Helderberg Hilltowns Association

Patroon Land Foundation moving forward in combat against hunger, 96,359 pounds strong

KNOX — Last year, the Patroon Land Foundation, in partnership with the Regional Food Bank, was able to provide 96,359 pounds of nutritious produce to the area's neediest people through the Food Bank's member agencies. This success was. accomplished through the efforts of many dedicated volunteers, and the need for an additional number is projected for the 2008 season.

From the time of the farm's first planting, in 2001 through 2005; over 100 tons of produce was harvested - and this in spite of limited labor resources and extremely adverse weather conditions. In 2006, the food bank became a full partner with the foundation, bringing Mark Weinheimer, our multi-talented farm manager, on board. Despite late planting and weather-induced flooding that year, he oversaw the production of 31,833 pounds of vegetables.

In 2007, infrastructure improvements to restore to productivity fields damaged by beaver activity and flooding were required. The foundation, owes its deepest gratitude to board member. Howard Zimmer for his planning, his advice and direction, and. to Gorman Brothers, RAMSCO, Finke Equipment, and Cobleskill Stone, for their diligent work in completing this drainage project.

Thanks are also due to the folks at GE-Selkirk, who constructed a farm stand, which generated lively activity during the season to help defray the expenses of the farm. The foundation is appreciative of every hour of volunteer help and for the Notre Dame intern, without whose help and enthusiasm, the farm would not have been able to have such a great harvest. The Hudson Correctional Facility provided many hours of inmate labor, and it is hoped this, invaluable resource will continue to be available.

This year, the foundation will begin Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) as we move the farm forward, not only to provide fresh-from-the farm produce to its shareholders, but to support feeding the hungry and to further defray farm expenses. The farm will be accepting 50 applications for the CSA. For further information, please contact Linda Comstock at 786-3691 ext. 245 or e-mail lindac@regionalfoodbank.net.

The foundation was established for perpetuity, and the public's participation by. donation, grant, " volunteering or subscribing to the CSA is key to reaching that goal. Please visit to see what we're doing, to browse the stand, or just to say hello.

—Pauline Williman, foundation president

Altamont Enterprise - February 28, 2008