Stronghaven Farm in the Town of Barton, Tioga County, has received a “Dairying for Tomorrow” honorable mention for its care and commitment to dairy farming excellence. Sponsored by American Dairy Association North East, the award recognizes the dairy farm for its efforts to protect local waterways including the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay watershed.
The farm employs practices including no till farming, cover crop planting and tile drainage to reduce phosphorus runoff and minimize soil erosion. The Strong family works closely with the Tioga County Soil and Conservation District to implement techniques to protect waterways and helps to teach other farms their best practices.
One judge noted the farm used a “great mix of practices going beyond the conventional which are all important in the Susquehanna River watershed.”
“We’ve been farming here for three generations, and we plan to continue,” said Matthew Strong. “Taking care of the land and water is important to us, which is why we work with partners like the Tioga County Soil and Water Conservation District to help us identify and implement best management practices.”
“Our dairy farmers are committed to producing high-quality milk, being good neighbors in their communities and being good stewards of their land and animals,” said Rick Naczi, CEO of American Dairy Association North East. “The Dairying for Tomorrow Awards recognize the unique actions taken on and off the farm by local dairy farmers to help sustain and improve the dairy industry.”
As part of the award, a $500 donation was made in the farm’s name to the Tioga Central School District. The funds will be used to provide equipment to help provide student access to cold, fresh milk.
