On March 7th, the New Jersey Agricultural Society welcomed farmers, partners, leaders, volunteers, and supporters from across the state to the Community House in Moorestown for its 2026 Annual Gala — an evening dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and future of New Jersey agriculture.
The room was filled with a shared sense of purpose. From long-standing agricultural leaders to the next generation stepping into the industry, the evening brought together a community rooted in hard work, leadership, and a commitment to keeping agriculture strong in the Garden State.
Guests enjoyed a dinner that highlighted New Jersey’s agricultural diversity, with ingredients sourced from farms and producers across the state. The evening also featured a silent auction, wine pull, and opportunities for guests to connect, reflect, and celebrate the impact of agriculture in New Jersey!
The room was filled with a shared sense of purpose. From long-standing agricultural leaders to the next generation stepping into the industry, the evening brought together a community rooted in hard work, leadership, and a commitment to keeping agriculture strong in the Garden State.
Guests enjoyed a dinner that highlighted New Jersey’s agricultural diversity, with ingredients sourced from farms and producers across the state. The evening also featured a silent auction, wine pull, and opportunities for guests to connect, reflect, and celebrate the impact of agriculture in New Jersey!
Honoring a Legacy: Gary Mount Receives the Gold Medallion Award
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One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the presentation of the Gold Medallion Award, the New Jersey Agricultural Society’s highest honor, to Gary Mount of Terhune Orchards.
Gary’s influence on New Jersey agriculture was profound. As co-founder of Terhune Orchards, he helped build not just a successful farm, but a destination that connected people to agriculture. Beyond the farm, his leadership extended across numerous boards, initiatives, and educational efforts that strengthened the industry statewide.
The recognition was especially poignant, as Gary was honored posthumously. His daughter, Tannwen Mount, accepted the award on his behalf and shared heartfelt reflections on his life and work. She spoke about his deep belief in education, collaboration, and mentorship — and his vision for an agricultural community that grows stronger by working together.
While Gary was not physically present, his legacy was felt throughout the room. His life’s work continues to shape New Jersey agriculture, and his impact will be carried forward by the many individuals and communities he influenced.
Gary’s influence on New Jersey agriculture was profound. As co-founder of Terhune Orchards, he helped build not just a successful farm, but a destination that connected people to agriculture. Beyond the farm, his leadership extended across numerous boards, initiatives, and educational efforts that strengthened the industry statewide.
The recognition was especially poignant, as Gary was honored posthumously. His daughter, Tannwen Mount, accepted the award on his behalf and shared heartfelt reflections on his life and work. She spoke about his deep belief in education, collaboration, and mentorship — and his vision for an agricultural community that grows stronger by working together.
While Gary was not physically present, his legacy was felt throughout the room. His life’s work continues to shape New Jersey agriculture, and his impact will be carried forward by the many individuals and communities he influenced.
Recognizing Leaders Across New Jersey Agriculture
In addition to the Gold Medallion Award, the evening recognized several outstanding individuals and organizations whose work continues to move agriculture forward in New Jersey:
- Assemblyman William W. Spearman received the President’s Award for his leadership in advancing agricultural issues and supporting the farming community through public service.
- Melick’s Town Farm, an 11th-generation family farm with roots dating back to 1713, was honored with a Century Farm Award for its enduring legacy and continued contribution to New Jersey agriculture.
- Pleasant Valley Farm, serving Atlantic County since 1918, was also recognized with a Century Farm Award for its longstanding commitment to providing fresh, local products to its community.
- Ed Dager of Snyder Research Farm received the Neil Robson Farmers Against Hunger Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication to fighting food insecurity, donating tens of thousands of pounds of fresh produce to support families across the state.
Made Possible by Our Sponsors
This evening would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, whose commitment to agriculture continues to make a lasting impact across New Jersey.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our Presenting Sponsor, Belle Mead Garage, for their continued leadership and support of the New Jersey Agricultural Society.
We also thank our Corporate Sponsors, Table Sponsors, Society Sponsors, and Contributors, whose partnership helps make events like this — and the work we do year-round — possible.
In addition, we are grateful to the many farms, businesses, and partners who contributed to the evening, including those who helped provide locally sourced food, auction items, and experiences that showcased the best of New Jersey agriculture.
Your support allows us to continue advancing our mission and expanding programs like Farmers Against Hunger, connecting farms with families in need across our state.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our Presenting Sponsor, Belle Mead Garage, for their continued leadership and support of the New Jersey Agricultural Society.
We also thank our Corporate Sponsors, Table Sponsors, Society Sponsors, and Contributors, whose partnership helps make events like this — and the work we do year-round — possible.
In addition, we are grateful to the many farms, businesses, and partners who contributed to the evening, including those who helped provide locally sourced food, auction items, and experiences that showcased the best of New Jersey agriculture.
Your support allows us to continue advancing our mission and expanding programs like Farmers Against Hunger, connecting farms with families in need across our state.
 | Presenting Sponsor • Belle Mead Garage Event Sponsors • Farm Credit East • Holman • Rutgers University • New Jersey Department of Agriculture • Backacres Farms LLC • Joni Elliott • New Jersey Farm Bureau • Terhune Orchards • Alstede Farms • Burlington County Board of Agriculture • Riamede Farm • Windy Bush Hay Farms • Holland Ridge Farms • Assemblywoman Andrea Katz • Senator Troy Singleton • Viereck Farms | Menu Sponsors Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse Clover Valley Farm Readington River Buffalo Farm Parson’s Seafood Fairgrown Farm Goffle Road Poultry Farm Severino Pasta Company Rancocas Creek Farm Cherry Grove Farm Drink Sponsors Unionville Vineyards Recklesstown Farm Distillery Needle Creek Farm Brewery |
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