Acknowledged as Outstanding Agricultural Pioneers
Glynwood announced the recipients of their 2013 Harvest Award, Benjamin and Lindsey Shute, co-founders of Hearty Roots Community Farm and the National Young Farmers Coalition. The Shutes have demonstrated tremendous leadership not only as farm operators but also as trainers and advocates for the next generation of farmers.
“The Shutes’ work resonates with Glynwood’s vision of a sustainable food system for the Hudson Valley,” said Kathleen Frith, Glynwood’s president. “We chose Benjamin and Lindsey as this year’s Harvest Award winners because their inspiring story provides a powerful example for aspiring and emerging young farmers across the region and beyond.”
Glynwood’s Harvest Award celebrates farmers, organizations and businesses that demonstrate innovation and leadership in support of sustainable agriculture and regional food systems. Glynwood created the Harvest Award in 2003 to highlight the positive outcomes that result when a regional food system is revitalized and to inspire others to take action within their own communities.
Hearty Roots, a family farm founded in 2004 in Germantown, N.Y., uses sustainable practices to grow food for more than 500 community families. Given the challenges in finding affordable land for Hearty Roots’ permanent home, Benjamin Shute has become a strong voice for increasing land access for farmers across the Hudson Valley.
Currently led by Lindsey Shute, the National Young Farmers Coalition was founded in 2009 to represent, mobilize and engage young farmers across the country to ensure their success. The Coalition has grown to over 450 members across 50 states, and the organization has developed many influential initiatives.
“We are honored to be recognized as this year’s Harvest Award recipients, and proud to be part of the Hudson Valley community of farmers, consumers and advocates that are keeping family farms strong,” said Lindsey Shute.
