This past spring, the US Department of Agriculture released results from the 2017 Farm Census, which is taken every five years. For the first time, the survey allowed farming families to list more than one “principal” farmer. Couples who own farms no longer must designate one person—usually a husband—as the principal farmer. As a result, women as a percent of farmers has risen by 26% nationwide and by 36% in New Jersey. Some of this increase may be real—more women involved in farming than in 2012. But most of it is surely due to the methodology change, which finally gives women credit for their work in agriculture. You can support and celebrate these innovative, hard working, resilient women by visiting their Central New Jersey farms, farm markets, farm stands or dining in farm-to-table restaurants or farm-to-fork events where their foods are sourced. Central New Jersey gem Terhune Orchards is a family owned and operated 200-acre farm in Princeton, NJ. Keeping the legacy alive are farmer Pam Mount and her daughters Tannwenn and Reuwai managing farm and winery operations. Along with husband and father, Gary, they are 10th & 11th generation farmers in New Jersey. Since purchasing the Terhune Orchards, they have also become award-winning winemakers. Awarded Vegetable Farmers of the Year, they host annual themed family festivals every year and offer seasonal PYO strawberries, blueberries, apples, peaches, pumpkins and space for private functions in their barns. In addition, they host special wine themed events and tastings and special farm-to-table events. Check out the rest of the Central New Jersey women who tirelessly work to put food on our table. Download the NEW agritourism map over at DiscoverCentralNJ.com and start planning your farm escape! And if you’re car-less, many of these farms are just a quick cab ride away from the nearest bus or train stop via NJ
This past spring, the US Department of Agriculture released results from the 2017 Farm Census, which is taken every five years. For the first time, the survey allowed farming families to list more than one “principal” farmer. Couples who own farms no longer must designate one person—usually a husband—as the principal farmer. As a result, women as a percent of farmers has risen by 26% nationwide and by 36% in New Jersey. Some of this
