More FARMER

More FOOD

better FUTURE

 

From the effects of widespread monoculture to the aging population of career farmers, the agriculture industry today is facing myriad challenges. Industrialized farming, for all its virtues, has not come without collateral damage—depleting healthy soil and contributing to threats of contamination. With land becoming more and more scarce, the number of farmers in America has likewise declined, now sitting at an all-time low. And yet, there has never been more consumer demand for what they produce. But farms today are plagued by a sheer lack of resources, capital and infrastructure required to distribute and preserve sustainable agriculture. According to American Famland Trust, the U.S. is losing farmland at a rate of 40 acres every hour; New York state alone has lost a half million acres over the last 30 years. With the average age of farmers rising and the number of young, new farmers declining at an alarming rate, the generational passing of practical, institutional knowledge and experience is at risk.

Since the earliest days of civilization, farming has been the bedrock of society. It is our mission to uphold the system.

About Togather

Togather is rooted in an essential paradigm shift, establishing partnership between farmers and the greater population. In our vision, it will be a place where farmers and non-farmers can come together, where city dwellers can escape and experience, support and learn about natural farming practices. A sanctuary from urban life, it will offer people the opportunity to feel like they own a part of something bigger. They can contribute firsthand to farming by planting their own crops with the help of a resident farmer. Above all, we hope to make it a place that combines experience, education and enjoyment. For farmers, we hope the project empowers young growers facing tough economic conditions. The master plan, as exhibited in the artist’s rendering, are informed by the ideals of environmental stewardship, taking into account natural farming practices and driven by eco-friendly design with sustainability and sophistication in mind. 

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1. Farmer House:
State-of-the-art home, designed for comfort, serenity and environmental responsibility

2. Welcome Center:
Information, events, workshops, classes, farm store

3. Greenhouses:
Sustainable design for optimal growth environment for year-round cultivation

4. Petticoat Garden:
Experimenting and showcasing our growing practice  

5. Specialty Crop Field:
Greens, root vegetables, squashes, micro greens, green house tropical/exotics, eatable flowers, culinary, aromatic herbs and honey. 

6. South Vegetable Field:
Onions, scallions, garlic, garlic scapes, shallots, raspberries, strawberries, tree fruit, melons, and tomatoes

7. North Vegetable Field:
Heirloom Bio-dynamic Produce  
   
8. Riverbank Field:
Native and edible plant garden


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Nestled in the beautiful Hudson Valley, the Togather property has multiple vegetable fields, pasture land and residence that would showcase the highest standard of eco-living style. This serene place would be a nest for the local farmer and likewise a perfect getaway from busy lives of urbanites.

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GUIDING PRINCIPLE

Preserve more farmland.  Raising awareness to the public.  Additional revenue stream for farmers.  Providing economic stability in farming community.  Catalysis for healthy investment.  Promote healthy lifestyle.  Providing placemaking for urbanites.  Fostering fellowship and co-op as a model social structure

People

Whether you are dropping by or staying for a few days, you will experience what the best farming practices have to offer. From planting to harvesting, you will enjoy the connection to nature, the availability of fresh produce and the overall farming experience.      

farmer

Togather aims to empower the participating farmer by alleviating land access burdens, generating an additional revenue stream and giving him the opportunity to take ownership of the operation.  The sound revenue source will be from Togather’s educational and experiential programs, where farmers can interact with people to share knowledge of their field operation.  Meanwhile, farmers can work the land rent-free.