Celebrating Earth Day!

The Foodshed Alliance held this year’s Earth Day Celebration on April 20, 2024 at the Sustainable Agriculture Enterprise (SAgE) farm site in Andover, bringing together community members, local farmers, and sustainability enthusiasts for a day of education, engagement, and celebration of sustainable agriculture.

The event featured a Plant Sale and Seed Swap where attendees could browse and purchase a diverse selection of plants and exchange seeds, fostering a sense of community and promoting biodiversity in local gardens. Herbs grown by Sussex County Community College students at the Sustainable Agriculture & Environmental Science Center included Culinary Sage, Sorbet Viola, Greek Oregano, and German Winter Thyme, among others.

Participants enjoyed a guided hike to Muckshaw Pond, lead by the Foodshed Alliance’s David DeWitt, where they learned some history of Newton, NJ, its invasive species and the efforts of the Paulins Kill Watershed initiative.

The Paulins Kill Watershed initiative showcased an innovative 3D model of the watershed. SAgE farmers’ products were available for purchase and LocalShare hosted a flower sale and encouraged volunteer sign-ups. Special vendors included Lionshead Bee Farm selling its honey, Seeds of Peace Farm promoting its CSA program, and All Things Good Farm featurin

g local artisan goods. Blue Herons Farm and Native Nursery highlighted native plants, while Greenhouse on Greendell offered flowers and microgreens. Farmer Made featured handmade towels, jams, and more, while River Valley Grains provided information about local grain production, educating attendees about sustainable farming practices.

Attendees were treated to live music by Maribyrd and pizza from Emily’s Hearth pizza truck, made with fresh, local ingredients. The highlight of the day was a live chainsaw woodcarving preformed by Freehand Custom Carvings!