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WILLIAMSTOWN — The regenerative agriculture consulting firm Understanding Ag, LLC announced in June the creation of a joint venture with Green River Regenerative Farm, Inc., to create a high-level, regenerative agricultural education and training program and to expand the farm’s regenerative cropping and livestock production systems.
As part of the joint venture, UA will lease the farm from its current owners and manage the farm’s day-to-day operations. Both entities will share in the resulting profits.
Joint Venture Brings New Life to Historic Farm
The 235-acre farm, formerly known as Modern Dairy, the Langer Farm, and Green River Farms, is on land which was used in part for farming and as hunting grounds by the Mohican people and was later settled by former British soldiers garrisoned at Fort Massachusetts and Fort West Hoosac.
In addition to becoming a hub for regenerative agricultural learning, research and professional development, UA plans to add multiple, regeneratively grown food products to the farm’s production enterprises, according to UA managing partner Allen Williams, Ph.D.
Expansion Plans Include Diverse Agricultural Enterprises
“The farm has been vacant for four years, but previously established blueberries and an apple orchard are still producing and will become the principal initial enterprises in the operation,” Williams said. “Our first steps in transitioning the farm from conventional to regenerative-organic will include hiring staff, cleaning up the property and building fences. Over time we will add pastured poultry, cattle grazing, sheep production, and pastured pig and vegetable production, as well as greenhouse-raised perennial tree and shrubbery stock. We also plan to take advantage of existing apple orchards and on-site cidery for cider production.”
Morgan Hartman, a UA regenerative agriculture farm consultant, will serve as managing director of the joint venture and will be responsible for the farm’s day-to-day operations, including overseeing regenerative agricultural practices implemented on the farm.
Regenerative Agriculture Education and Training Program Launched
“This new venture represents a tremendous opportunity to advance the soil health and regenerative ag movement, the results of which include healthier food, diverse and resilient ecosystems and healthier communities,” Hartman said. “In time, the farm will become a premier learning center for agricultural professionals, policy makers, and local residents—and will also provide pasture-raised, nutrient-dense products for the community.”
“We’re committed to employing regenerative ag principles and practices in the farm’s operation and incredibly excited to partner with Understanding Ag in this joint venture,” said farm co-owner Jan-Gisbert Schultze, Ph.D.
“In the regenerative ag space, UA’s bona fides are unparalleled and we’re confident the team will provide the experience and expertise necessary to help Green River Regenerative Farm thrive, ensuring its permanence in the community for future generations,” said farm co-owner Paul-Bernhard Kallen, Ph.D.
