Since debuting Savor the Season a year ago, we’ve explored and celebrated many aspects of agriculture in this county: history, education, business, tourism, events. We’ve met many of the farmers and food and drink producers. We’ve highlighted crops and animals of the season. We’ve reported on important agriculture news and issues. We’ve even shared some family recipes made from seasonal food.

As we travel around Essex County, we’re finding a bumper crop of stories. Some are steeped in the rich heritage of the region, and others are from young people who have moved here over the past decade. It’s the people – from millennials to Baby Boomers – who are taking the financial risk to pursue their passions and making this an agricultural success story in the state of New York.

What’s the secret to this success?

Maybe it’s the land, work ethic, passion, climate and the growing need for locally produced food and drink. But we think it’s more likely the intangible – and organically produced – concept of community. No matter who we talk to in Essex County’s farming industry, we’re finding links among the farmers and producers. A person who operates a farm today may have begun working at a nearby farm. A small grower may be renting land in return for a barter of vegetables. Some farmers and producers share resources. They share knowledge. Value-added producers buy products from local farms. They share a processing facility at the Hub on the Hill in Essex. They share distribution services. They are connected at the roots, so to speak, and that’s what makes this region so strong agriculturally.

This is an exciting time for agriculture in Essex County, and it’s an opportune time to meet the people who are making this sector of our local economy a success.

We hope you enjoy this special issue, and we look forward to exploring more agriculture from the region for the next season in September.

Now … it’s time to eat, drink and be merry.