Boards & Commissions

Agricultural Advisory Committee

English Farm

DO YOU KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD FARMS?

Bernards Township is fortunate to be home to many farms that not only provide fresh food but preserve local history and create open space and scenic vistas for residents. In addition to seasonal markets where local fruits and vegetables are sold, there are preserved farms that also keep alive the rich agricultural history of the Township and provide residents with a venue for the performing arts.

Get to know our local farms and enjoy a variety of activities with your friends and family. Visit our Township farms and farm markets, commune with the animals, pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, trek through a corn maze and enjoy the fresh fruits and vegetables grown in your community. Look into Somerset County 4H clubs for your children. Check out musical performances and art displays at the Kennedy Martin Stelle Farmstead and the Ross Farm.

Join the Township and the Agricultural Advisory Committee in supporting local farms and their contributions to our community.

Mission Statement:

The Committee is responsible for promoting and preserving agriculture as a viable economic activity within Bernards Township and enabling agricultural enterprises to continue to contribute to the quality of life in the community. The Committee makes recommendations to the Planning Board and Township Committee as to municipal land use procedures that strengthen and sustain agriculture and advises on legislative and regulatory issues pertaining to agriculture. It also serves as a forum for discussion of local agricultural practices and as an agent of change for public policies that may impact farming and the preservation of farmland.

Goals:

Identify issues facing local agricultural enterprises and provide recommendations for resolution
Continue the sustainable use of economically viable farmland for production through farmland preservation options
Promote local agriculture through municipal activities
Provide education to agricultural community to meet future economic challenges
Promote community interest in agriculturally related activities
Foster responsible stewardship of land
Promote communication and cooperation among farmers and the public
Communicate, educate and promote contributions made by agriculture to the local community

Membership:

The Agricultural Advisory Committee is made up of five members and two alternate members. In addition, the Agricultural Advisory Committee includes staff, consultants and liaisons to county and state organizations appointed at the beginning of each year when it reorganizes.

Name	Membership	Term Expires
Anthony McCraken Sr.	Advisor	12/31/2019
Carol English	Regular	12/31/2021
James Baldassare, Jr.	TC Voting Member	12/31/2020
James Milito	Regular	12/31/2021
Mariellen Keefe	Regular	12/31/2020
Nick Polanin	Advisor	12/31/2019
Tom Timko	Advisor	12/31/2019
Tyson Mertz	Regular	12/31/2020