Bellvale chosen for ‘Open House on the Farm'

Warwick — For the 24th “Open House on the Farm,” Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County has selected Bellvale Farms of Warwick to open their doors to the public for a full day (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) on Saturday, Sept. 25. “Bellvale Farms is a very impressive operation,” said Audrey Reith, extension educator, and Open House coordinator, “It’s been in operation for almost 200 years, and utilizes the latest technology, as well as time-honored techniques. They are good stewards of their land, which covers over 460 contiguous acres, and augment their income with an extremely successful ‘agribusiness’ featuring their premium homemade ice cream.” On Saturday, the public is invited to explore this historic farm with guided tours, live demonstrations, exhibits, samples and activities for the entire family. Tours of the farm will be led by Orange County farmers and other knowledgeable volunteers who will explain the operation, as well the impact of agriculture on Orange County. This year’s event will not only focus on the production practices of an operating dairy farm, but will also demonstrate the importance of farms as economic engines, producers of local, safe food and stewards of open space. Open House on the Farm is coordinated by Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County and sponsored by Farm Credit East. The event is free. Bellvale Farms is located at 75 Bellvale Lakes Road in Warwick. For more information and directions, call Reith at 344-1234 or visit www.cce.cornell.edu/orange.