New Jersey Agricultural Society

Meet the New Faces Behind Farmers Against Hunger

7/17/2025

We are excited to introduce two outstanding new members to our Farmers Against Hunger team!

Judith - Gleaning Coordinator
Judith has spent the past decade working in sustainable food systems, primarily focusing on nutrition and farm education programs for children in the Philadelphia and Baltimore regions. After years in education, she was inspired to deepen her understanding of production agriculture, spending several years working at a diversified organic vegetable farm in south-central Pennsylvania. There, Judith gained hands-on experience with harvest techniques, drip irrigation, and farmers market management. She later returned to Philadelphia to manage the produce department of a small independent grocery store dedicated to sourcing locally from farmers and producers. Her mission is to support local farmers and help make quality produce accessible to everyone.

Judith has already led several gleanings this season and is excited to continue her work alongside our dedicated volunteers. If you'd like to glean with Judith and the team this season, please visit here to join us in the fields.

John - Transportation Coordinator
John joins Farmers Against Hunger as our new Transportation Coordinator. He holds a Class A CDL and has a deep passion for driving and delivering fresh food to communities in need. John's role involves working closely with our dedicated team to ensure that fresh produce reaches families across New Jersey. Originally from Ecuador, John moved to the United States six years ago seeking new opportunities and understands firsthand the importance of community support.

John is committed to serving his community and ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most. His work is essential in connecting local farmers with families facing food insecurity, playing a critical role in our mission to create stronger, more compassionate communities.

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HUNGER. HARVEST. HOPE. Merch Returns for a Limited Time!

5/21/2025

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You’ve been with us in the fields — now’s your chance to wear the mission on your sleeve (literally).

HUNGER. HARVEST. HOPE. shirts have returned!

There are 6 days left to grab your favorite style before the campaign closes on May 27 at 11:59 PM EST. Every purchase helps us rescue more surplus produce and get it to folks who need it most across New Jersey.

👕 Available in multiple styles and colors!

We made this shirt with our community in mind — people like you who show up, dig in, and make this work possible. Help spread the word and keep the momentum going.

Thanks for always showing up — we can’t wait to see you repping FAH this season.

Get Yours

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Terhune Orchards Turns 50: Celebrating New Jersey’s Pioneer in Agritourism and Sustainable Farming

4/22/2025

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A Family Legacy of Innovation

The Mount family’s journey began in 1975 when Pam and Gary Mount purchased the original 55-acre farm. Over the decades, they expanded their operations, adding new properties, crops, and ventures like the Terhune Winery, which opened in 2010. The winery, managed by Tannwen and her sister Reuwai, has become a beloved addition to the farm, offering wine tastings, live music, and seasonal events.

For Tannwen, the winery was somewhat of a personal passion project. After spending time in California’s wine country, she saw an opportunity to bring a similar experience to her family’s farm. “When I moved back to the farm, we had the chance to plant wine grapes on a new property,” she recalls. "It was a way to create a new revenue stream and involve more family members in the farm. My sister, Reuwai, who’s a scientist, now manages the winemaking and vineyard, while I handle the marketing, sales, and tasting room. It’s truly a family endeavor.”

In 2016, they opened a new winery building, which has become a hub of activity. “We’re bottling wine, fermenting grapes and apple cider, and hosting events like our Weekend Music Series,” Tannwen says. “It’s been a great way to connect with the community and offer something unique.” Today, Terhune offers 18 types of wine, including their very own Apple Wine.

Pioneering Agritourism in New Jersey

Speaking of which, 1975 also marks the first celebration of Terhune’s ‘Apple Day,’ a welcoming event organized by the Mount family and neighbors to invite the community onto the farm—a day not complete without Tannwen’s grandmother’s famous Apple Crisp, Tannwen remarked. At a time when municipal regulations in New Jersey often restricted farmers from bringing the public onto their land or selling homegrown crops directly, Apple Day was one of the earliest examples of farmers proactively opening their doors to celebrate agriculture with their community.

This groundbreaking effort helped lay the foundation for agritourism in the state, long before the supportive legal framework of the Right to Farm Act in 1983 made such ventures more accessible and protected for farmers. What began as a single weekend in September has blossomed into eight fall weekends and inspired numerous festivals throughout the year, including Terhune's Blueberry Bash, Just Peachy Festival, Firefly Festival, and Fall Family Fun Weekends.

“Agritourism has evolved significantly over the past 50 years,” Tannwen notes, and that back in the 70s, “People didn’t really invite the community to be a part of their farm.”

From its conception, she states, “It’s been a concerted effort to educate the public about who their farmers are and where their food comes from. Agritourism is a fun way to do that, but it takes effort from everyone to open their doors and put a face on the farmers.”

A Commitment to Community and NJAS Legacy

As we celebrate Terhune Orchards’ 50th anniversary (officially commemorated with a special gathering on March 6th in the wine barn, featuring remarks from Ed Wengryn, NJ Secretary of Agriculture, and NJ State Senator Shirley Turner), the New Jersey Agricultural Society proudly honors the remarkable contributions of Pam Mount, former dedicated board member whose visionary leadership shaped our organization's core programs and significantly advanced sustainable agriculture across New Jersey.

Pam Mount’s enduring commitment to sustainability and community service is evident not only through her advocacy and leadership at Terhune Orchards but also in her pivotal role in establishing Farmers Against Hunger (FAH) and the Agricultural Leadership Development Program (NJALDP).

“Farmers Against Hunger really started as a transportation problem,” Tannwen explains. “Farmers have 'seconds'—perfectly good produce that might not look perfect—and there are hungry people who need it. My mom wanted to figure out how to bridge that gap. Farmers work incredibly hard growing amazing products, and nobody wants to see their hard work go to waste or hear about kids going hungry. So that's really what drove her to start Farmers Against Hunger.”

Pam was also integral to the founding of the Agricultural Leadership Development Program, designed to empower young agricultural leaders with essential skills and community resources. Tannwen, a graduate of NJALDP Class 5, reflects:

“The program helped me see how important it is to build a support network in agriculture,” she said. “It gave me the tools to get involved, be a good neighbor, and understand how to work with local government. It also gave me practice running meetings, speaking to elected officials, and connecting with other farmers.” (Read more about NJALDP here, currently open to signup for Class 13!)

Looking to the Future

As Terhune Orchards looks ahead, the Mount family remains focused on innovation and community engagement. Plans for the future include new festivals, such as a Strawberry Festival this summer, and the potential introduction of hard cider. The farm also continues to prioritize education, offering school tours, group events, and programs like Read & Pick to connect people of all ages with farming.

“Well, I think we wouldn't be where we are if it wasn't for our regular customers and our neighbors,” Tannwen shared. “We had a woman in just yesterday who comes every week. She said this is her ‘happy place’—she comes and gets her kale, her lettuce, her apples every single week. I have to tell you, we wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for people like that customer.”

Here’s to 50 more years of Terhune Orchards—a true New Jersey treasure.

For more information about Terhune Orchards and their 50th-anniversary celebrations, visit their website www.terhuneorchards.com or follow them on social media.

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From Portugal to Bordentown: NJALDP Class XII Graduates

4/22/2025

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On April 17th, the New Jersey Agricultural Society proudly celebrated the graduation of Class XII of the New Jersey Agricultural Leadership Development Program (NJALDP) at the Rutgers EcoComplex in Bordentown. The evening marked the culmination of a two-year journey in leadership development, agricultural education, and peer connection for 14 individuals committed to the future of New Jersey agriculture.

Following a cocktail hour and buffet dinner, guests gathered for a program that honored the graduates and the path they’ve traveled. Speakers included NJAS President Christopher Carnevale, Vice President and NJALDP Committee Chair Amy Ordog-Blew, Executive Dean of NJAES Dr. Laura Lawson, and Dr. Brian Schilling, Director of Rutgers Cooperative Extension, who delivered the evening’s keynote. Tameko Webster, Chief of Staff for the State Board of Agriculture, shared remarks on behalf of the Department, along with Allen Carter, Jr., President of the New Jersey Farm Bureau. Class XII graduate Lauren Lewis also offered reflections on behalf of her peers.

The celebration was made even more special thanks to local supporters Screamin’ Hill Brewery and Salem Oak Vineyards, who generously donated beer and wine for the evening.

Class XII also just recently returned from their international capstone trip to Portugal—touring citrus orchards, vineyards, and organic farms; connecting with researchers at the University of Algarve; and meeting with the U.S. Embassy to discuss agricultural trade and global regulation. These firsthand experiences provided valuable context for understanding agriculture across borders—and brought fresh perspective back to New Jersey.

We couldn’t be more proud of Class XII and the leadership, innovation, and heart they’re bringing back to their farms, businesses, and communities.

Looking ahead, applications for NJALDP Class XIII are open through May 1st.
If you’re ready to grow your network, strengthen your voice, and shape the future of agriculture in New Jersey, we invite you to apply.

👉 Apply now for NJALDP Class XIII

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In Memory of Steve Jany (1951–2025)

4/15/2025

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The New Jersey Agricultural Society joins the broader farming community in remembering Steven R. Jany, who passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 73.

Steve was a lifelong resident of Mercer County and a farmer whose commitment to agriculture began in his teens and continued for more than five decades. As a partner at Rustin Farms, he worked alongside his brother Frank and son Rodger to build a 2,000-acre grain and Christmas tree operation in Princeton Junction.

Over the years, Steve served in numerous leadership roles across the state. He was a former president of the State Board of Agriculture, second vice president of the NJ Farm Bureau, and held positions with the NJ Soybean Board, Grain and Forage Producers Association, and more. He contributed to land use, water supply, and open space conversations at both the local and state level.

In recognition of his lifetime of service, Steve was awarded the Distinguished Service to New Jersey Agriculture Award in 2014 by the State Board of Agriculture. The honor highlighted his decades of work to advance the industry and improve rural life in the Garden State.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Steve’s family, friends, and all who knew and admired him. He will be remembered for his quiet leadership, generous mentorship, and enduring commitment to New Jersey agriculture.

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A Night to Remember: 2025 NJ Agricultural Society Gala

4/4/2025

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On March 29th, the New Jersey Agricultural Society hosted its Annual Gala at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center—our first time at this beautiful venue, and it made the night feel especially memorable. Over 200 friends, farmers, educators, and supporters gathered to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the people who keep New Jersey agriculture strong. The evening also featured great food, live music, a silent auction, a wine cork pull, and a 50/50 raffle—all of which added to the fun and made for a great night.

We were proud to honor four outstanding leaders in New Jersey agriculture. Opening with the Century Farm Award, secretary Ed Wengryn, presented the award to Viereck Farms of Swedesboro, a fifth-generation farm that has been feeding its community for over 100 years. Joel Viereck, representing the fourth generation, humbly accepted the award on behalf of his family, honoring their long-standing commitment to sustainable farming and local community engagement.

Honored with the President’s Award was Ryck Suydam. Representing a staggering 12 generations of farmers on his family’s Somerset County land, Ryck has carried that legacy forward, leading as president of the NJ Farm Bureau for ten years. He also serves on the Somerset County Board of Agriculture, and has persistently supported organizations like the NJ Ag Society as a former board member, New Jersey Department of Agriculture, and Rutgers University throughout his career. In his speech, he reminded us how vital it is to get involved and see the bigger picture, and shared, “Being a farmer—I feel lucky every day.”

Awarded with the Tony Russo Marketing Award was Barlow Flower Farm, accepted by Steve Barlow. What started as a small growing greenhouse 40 years ago along the Jersey Shore has bloomed into a standout destination with a strong online presence, gardening club, creative events like their workshops and packed winter market, and an unprecedented e-commerce plant platform. Steve gave a nod to his mom's early marketing smarts, explaining how simply supporting local organizations and getting involved in the community laid the groundwork for their thriving approach today.

The Gold Medallion Award presentation was a standout moment of the evening, as Bill Griffin and Jim Giamarese honored Joni Elliott, past president of the New Jersey Agricultural Society and longtime representative of the Department of Agriculture. Calling her “the nucleus of the current Ag Society,” Elliott took the helm as director of NJAS in 1991 back when it was still integrated into the NJ Department of Agriculture. There, she transformed it from a $60,000 operation into a nearly half-million dollar organization with multiple thriving programs. She reflected on her work with Farmers Against Hunger, sharing, “I at least could go to bed at night knowing that we provided thousands of people a week with fresh nutritious produce.” And despite entering the industry with no agricultural background, she became a mentor and guiding force for many in the agriculture community. She bravely named those who supported her throughout her career, including farmers, trustees, and longtime staff. In her closing, she invited many of her supporters to join her at the podium, sharing the moment with gratitude saying, “Some people say it takes a village; I say it takes people who care.”

Thank you to our sponsors, donors, Ag Journal advertisers, and the NJAS Board of Trustees for making it all possible. Proceeds from the Gala support the Society’s three core programs: Farmers Against Hunger, Agricultural Education, and the New Jersey Agricultural Leadership Development Program.

Here’s to the stories we shared, the people we honored, and the future we’re growing together. See you again next year!

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Excellence in Agriculture: The 2025 NJAS Award Winners

3/21/2025

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The New Jersey Agricultural Society is proud to present the distinguished individuals and farm recognized for their outstanding contributions to agriculture in New Jersey. These honorees will be commemorated at our 2025 Gala on March 29th.

Gold Medallion Award - Joni Elliott

The highest honor from NJAS, recognizing lifelong dedication to New Jersey agriculture. Joni Elliott is being honored for her leadership and contributions to the industry.

Joni Elliot grew up in eastern Connecticut, the second of four children. She graduated from Connecticut College, Phi Beta Kappa, magna cum laude. Furthering her education, she earned a masters degree from the Eagleton Institute at Rutgers University.

Joni started her career working for the New Jersey General Assembly. She then transitioned to a job in Government Relations at Johnson and Johnson, a position she held until putting her career on hold to focus on raising her two young sons.

Possessing relevant experience, Joni restarted her career by working in the office of New Jersey Governor Kean. Following this, she worked for a non-profit and then for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, where she remained for many years until her
retirement.

Joni has the unique distinction of having worked in all three employment sectors: Public, Private and Nonprofit!

While at the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Joni also served as the Executive Director of the New Jersey Agricultural Society, dedicating twenty years of stewardship to the organization. When Joni took the helm, the NJAS had an operating budget of about $60,000 and the organization’s activities consisted of an annual legislators tour and three teachers tours.

Using her leadership skills as well as her strength to turn ideas into reality, Joni inspired, encouraged and involved others, to whom she gives much credit, in the mission to make the New Jersey Agricultural Society stronger and better. In a shining example of “leaving things better than you found them”, she left the Ag Society with an annual operating budget of nearly a half-million dollars along with three thriving signature programs: Learning Through Gardening, Farmers Against Hunger and NJ Agricultural Leadership Development!

Joni has served on numerous boards (e.g., church council, battered women, environmental education, homeowners association), several times as President or Chair. Fueled by her passion for agriculture, Joni continues to serve on the New Jersey Agricultural Society’s Board of Trustees, recently completing a term as President.

Century Farm Award - Viereck Farms
Awarded to farms in the same family for 100+ years, Viereck Farms is recognized for their century-long agricultural legacy.

Viereck Farms is a fourth generation farm that was started over 100 years ago by Leslie Viereck and continued by Leslie Viereck, Jr, who is now 97. The farm is currently owned by David and Larry Viereck who operate the farm along with their sons Joel and Michael Viereck, who are the fourth generation. Leslie Viereck III also works on the farm, supervising the farmers market program.

The farm comprises about 800 acres in Woolwich and Logan Townships in Gloucester County with the majority of the acreage being permanently preserved farmland.

Viereck Farms is a diversified farming operation specializing in high tunnel vine-ripened tomatoes as well as a variety of other vegetables, fruits and grains grown using sustainable farming practices. These practices, such as crop rotation, integrated pest management and soil conservation help to ensure the long-term ecological health of Viereck Farms.

Viereck Farms sells its products directly to wholesale buyers in the region and also to delighted retail customers at area farmers markets.
The New Jersey Agricultural Society honors the Viereck family for their dedication to farming and agriculture through four generations and is proud to award the 2025 Century Farm Award to Viereck Farms.

President’s Award - Ryck Suydam

Honoring individuals or organizations with significant contributions to NJAS and NJ agriculture, Ryck Suydam is celebrated for his leadership in the agricultural community.

Agriculture has always been a significant part of Ryck Suydam’s life. Raised on the farm that has been in his family for over 300 years, Ryck is the 12th generation of his family to farm in America. Arriving from Holland in 1663 on the Rose Tree, his ancestors first farmed in Brooklyn NY for fifty years before moving to Somerset County NJ in 1713.

During Ryck’s childhood, Suydam Farms was a dairy operation. He was active in 4-H. By the time he was off to college, the dairy herd had been sold as the farm evolved into hay production to keep in pace with changing agricultural markets.

Ryck attended the University of Maine on a football scholarship, majoring in education. During this time, he had the opportunity to play as a rookie on the Denver Broncos before returning to the University of Maine to finish his degree. After graduation, he taught history at South Brunswick High School for two years before deciding to transition his career into the family insurance business, where he became a full partner. All the while, he continued farming.

In 2012, Ryck was elected president of the NJ Farm Bureau, a position he held for ten years. Over the course of his decade of service in this leadership role, he gave a voice to New Jersey agriculture, representing the needs and concerns of the farmers that elected him. Advocating for agriculture on a variety of issues at all levels of government, he helped to facilitate legislation that has had a favorable impact on agriculture in New Jersey. He also participated in many formal visits with state legislators to familiarize newly elected officials with the challenges facing New Jersey farmers. During this time, Ryck also held a seat for nine years on the board of directors of the American Farm Bureau in Washington.

Ryck has been a long-time member and supporter of the New Jersey Agricultural Society, serving on its Board of Trustees for several years.

Ryck has dedicated his life to keeping agriculture alive and well in New Jersey. Under his management, Suydam Farms, along with field production now also offering rustic, elegant event space, continues to thrive by evolving in step with the times. And benefiting from Ryck’s legacy of leadership, agriculture in New Jersey continues to thrive as well.

For his significant contributions to New Jersey agriculture, the New Jersey Agricultural Society is proud to present it’s 2025 President’s Award to Ryck Suydam.

Tony Russo Farmers Marketing Award - Barlow’s Flower Farm

Barlow’s Flower Farm, known as “Barlow’s”, has been flourishing in Wall Township for over 40 years. It all began in 1983 when founders Stephen and Leslie Barlow purchased the Sea Girt property, which included an 1807 farmhouse. Operations began with one retail greenhouse, ten small growing greenhouses and a retail shop.

With Stephen’s talent to grow exceptionally beautiful plants and Leslie’s artistic marketing skills, the business was off to a good start. Early expansion focused on improving the growing facilities. As sales continued to grow, the focus shifted to increasing the retail space. Many years, yet another production greenhouses was erected.

In 2004, two older greenhouses were removed to make room for a beautiful 10,000 sq ft European glass greenhouse and the number of growing greenhouses numbered twenty-eight.

Specializing in propagating and cutting, Barlow’s produces up to 70% of the plants that they sell, using safe, sustainable practices. They are one of New Jersey’s largest growers of retail annuals. They have continued to succeed against the competition of the big box stores by offering high quality, locally grown plants that will thrive in local conditions as well as exceptional, knowledgeable customer service. Their lovely shop is a “feel good” destination for their customers.

Barlow’s gratefully gives back to their community by supporting local fundraisers and many local organizations. Barlow’s is a class trip destination for the second grade classes in Wall Township, who come to learn how plants grow.

For their outstanding success in uniquely marketing farm products to the non-farm public, The New Jersey Agricultural Society is proud to present the 2025 Tony Russo Farmers Marketing Award to Barlow’s Flower Farm.

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Belle Mead Garage: The Farmer’s One-Stop Shop

3/10/2025

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Belle Mead Garage has spent nearly a century adapting to the times while staying true to its roots. What began as a small auto shop in 1927 has grown into one of the East Coast’s leading Massey Ferguson tractor dealerships, supplying equipment to farmers across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and beyond. The Higgins family has steered Belle Mead Garage forward—first under founder Leroy Higgins, then his son Murf, and now under his grandson Kip Higgins, who co-owns the dealership today alongside Chris Carnevale, President of the New Jersey Agricultural Society and Treasurer of the Somerset County Board of Agriculture. Together, they’ve built Belle Mead Garage into a hub for the region’s agricultural community.

During a recent visit, Chris gave us a tour of the facility, sharing his history with the business and how it has evolved over time. After first working at Belle Mead Garage in the early 1990s, he left to run a Massey Ferguson dealership in Wisconsin. When the last remaining Massey dealer in New Jersey shut down, he returned in 2016 to reintroduce the brand to the region. “We hit it at just the right time,” he said. As large commodity farms dwindled, small, diversified farms took their place, fueling demand for compact, high-horsepower tractors.

“The amount of tractors sold in New Jersey is actually quite large,” Chris explained. “We’ve seen an explosion of small tractor sales as more farmers focus on high-value crops and direct-to-consumer sales.” Belle Mead’s latest addition—a vineyard tractor designed for narrow rows and delicate crops—is an example of this shift in demand, supporting grape, blueberry, and orchard farmers with specialized equipment.

“The amount of tractors sold in New Jersey is actually quite large,” Chris explained. “We’ve seen an explosion of small tractor sales as more farmers focus on high-value crops and direct-to-consumer sales.” Belle Mead’s latest addition—a vineyard tractor designed for narrow rows and delicate crops—is an example of this shift in demand, supporting grape, blueberry, and orchard farmers with specialized equipment.

Beyond selling tractors, Chris takes pride in the hands-on work of running Belle Mead Garage. Whether it’s helping first-time farmers find the right machine, repairing a long-time customer’s truck, or tracking down a rare tractor part, he enjoys the problem-solving that comes with the job. “Sometimes it’s like a puzzle,” he said. “You’ll have a 40-year-old tractor, and the insignias are gone, the tags are missing. You have to go by pictures and back into what it is. And sometimes, all it takes is a $20 part to bring it back to life.” That attention to detail and commitment to service has kept Belle Mead Garage thriving for generations.

When asked about his favorite part of the job, Chris didn’t hesitate—“When people buy a new car, it’s a happy day. But when I drop off a new tractor, it’s like Christmas—they’re standing by the door waiting for it,” he said with a laugh. With a team that understands both worlds, Belle Mead remains a one-stop shop for New Jersey farmers, offering not just tractors but full-service repairs on trucks, trailers, and farm equipment alike.

The New Jersey Agricultural Society is proud to have Belle Mead Garage as a Corporate Sponsor of our 2025 Gala. Their dedication to supporting New Jersey’s agricultural community makes them a perfect partner for this event. There’s still time to join them--become a Corporate Sponsor today!

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Reflecting on FFA Week: Celebrating the Future of Agriculture

2/24/2025

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We had an incredible experience at the Advocacy and Legislative Leadership Day at The College of New Jersey, where we connected with Future Farmers of America (FFA) members and chapters from across the state. It was inspiring to witness so many young leaders engage with industry professionals, meet state legislators, and make their voices heard on the future of agriculture.

February 15-22, marked National FFA Week—a time dedicated to celebrating the impact of FFA in shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders. In New Jersey alone, more than 3,000 students participate in FFA, gaining hands-on experience and leadership skills that prepare them for careers in science, business, education, and agricultural industries. As part of FFA Week, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Ed Wengryn addressed FFA members during the annual Advocacy and Legislative Leadership Day, reinforcing the importance of developing relationships with decision-makers and fostering leadership in agriculture.

FFA is a national youth organization with over 850,800 members across the country, dedicated to preparing students for leadership and careers in agriculture. As one of the three integral components of Agricultural Education, FFA empowers students through career development programs, competitive events, and hands-on agricultural experiences. There are nearly 3,500 FFA members in 38 chapters throughout New Jersey, actively engaging in personal, career, and leadership growth opportunities.

The Advocacy and Legislative Leadership Day, held on Thursday, February 20, began with a career fair and networking event at The College of New Jersey. Students had the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, hear from Secretary Wengryn and other state agricultural leaders, and participate in discussions on policy and leadership. The event also included workshops led by State FFA Officers, where students explored the role of advocacy, identified strategies for effective advocacy, and developed plans to make an impact in their communities.

FFA Week also showcased the incredible efforts of local chapters. Throughout the week, students participated in activities such as the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon at Newton High School on February 19, the Ag Olympics at Salem County Vocational Technical School on February 21, and the FFA Week Breakfast at Allentown High School on February 22. These events highlighted the dedication and camaraderie that make FFA such a vital part of agricultural education.

February 22 was Give FFA Day, a special opportunity to support the organization and ensure that FFA members continue to have access to life-changing opportunities. Donations helped provide scholarships, fund leadership programs, and expand agricultural education for students across the country. By giving back to FFA, we contributed to shaping the future of agriculture and supporting the young leaders who will drive the industry forward.

As we reflect on FFA Week, we recognize the incredible impact of this organization and the bright future of agriculture in New Jersey and beyond. To continue supporting FFA and agricultural education, visit nj.gov/agriculture/ag_ed.

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Recap: 2025 New Jersey Agricultural Convention & Trade Show

2/10/2025

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The 2025 New Jersey State Agricultural Convention & Trade Show, hosted by the Vegetable Growers Association of NJ, brought together farmers, agricultural leaders, and industry professionals for three days of learning, networking, and celebration in Atlantic City. The New Jersey Agricultural Society (NJAS) was proud to be a part of this annual gathering, engaging with attendees at our booth, highlighting our key programs, and hosting a special luncheon to honor outstanding members of the agricultural community.

Honoring Excellence in Agriculture
One of the most meaningful moments of the luncheon was the presentation of the NJAS Agricultural Convention Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations making a lasting impact on New Jersey’s agricultural landscape.

🏆 Phil Alampi Industry Marketing Award – Grown in Monmouth
Named after former NJ Secretary of Agriculture Phil Alampi, this award honors those who have significantly advanced agricultural marketing, promoting New Jersey-grown products. This year’s award was proudly accepted by John Ciufo, Director of the Monmouth County Division of Economic Development, with gratitude extended to team member Susan Folta for her dedication.
🥇 Neil Robson Farmers Against Hunger Award – A.T. Buzby Farm

In memory of the late Neil Robson’s unwavering commitment to food security, this award is given to those who have gone above and beyond in supporting the Farmers Against Hunger program. Andrew and Dawn Buzby of A.T. Buzby Farm accepted the award in recognition of their incredible efforts in feeding communities throughout New Jersey.

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