Region I
Watkins Glen, NY
NEW YORK FARM HONORED FOR OUTSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
Angus Glen Farms is a cow-calf operation in the iconic Finger Lakes Region, an agricultural area which sees more than one million visitors each year. Cattle are used as a tool to improve the soil, forest and forage health. The farm is subdivided into 100 paddocks, with half considered silvopasture, the intentional integration of trees and livestock grazing. Cattle are moved daily to manage and reduce runoff into the nearby Seneca Lake while also promoting soil health, forage and tree growth, and improving the health of the cattle. In winter months when grass is not available, they practice bale grazing to reduce soil compaction and improve soil health in needed areas. During the summer, they keep track of temperatures and move cattle to the silvopasture for access to shade from the trees. The Chedzoy family also hosts “pasture walks” educating other producers, conservation professionals and visitors about their stewardship practices.
“Our goal, simply put, is to have a resilient and viable working farm for future generations of our family,” said Brett Chedzoy with Angus Glen Farms. “Protecting our unique landscape and watershed through sound and compatible farming practices is of the upmost importance.”
