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AWARDS

Congratulations to the New Hampshire Grange for winning first place in our booth theme contest. New Hampshire Grange best incorporated our selected theme “Growing Stronger Together” into their design. For their efforts, they will receive a free exhibitor booth in 2023! Second place was won by the New Hampshire Farm Bureau.

Annual NH Farm, Forest & Garden Expo Celebrates 39 Years!

Award Winners Recognized at Annual Ceremony

The 39^th annual NH Farm, Forest & Garden Exposition was held on February 4-5, 2022.  Despite winter storm weather challenges and ongoing Covid concerns, the event featured a busy trade show showcasing the latest in agricultural and forest technology and educational workshops and demonstrations with something for everyone, from the hobbyist to the professional.

The annual industry awards reception, held on Feb. 4th, recognized individuals and businesses for outstanding contributions to their industry. The winners are as follows:

NH Farms of Distinction is a program of the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food that annually recognizes those New Hampshire Farms that go the extra mile to keep their busy farmsteads neat and attractive, thereby portraying a positive image for New Hampshire agriculture. The 2022 winners are:

Harding Hill Farm, Sunapee NH: Tyler and Kelly Webb took over management of the Harding Hill Farm in Sunapee in 2014 when Tyler became co-owner with his father, Van. Harding Hill Farm was established by Van’s parents in 1948 and was a sheep farm for many years. The property had been farmed in various capacities since the 1700’s. Tyler has a forestry background and with his father, offers tree care and forest management services. Kelly has degrees in dairy and animal nutrition. Tyler and Kelly introduced a herd of belted Galloway cattle to the farm and have worked to acquire land and improve pastures and grazing options. The farm is currently comprised of about 150 acres including 45 acres of rented pasture and hayland. Grass-fed beef is sold at their retail store and at the local farmers’ market. The family has also produced maple syrup for three generations and they currently make about 1000 gallons of syrup per year. They also process and sell firewood and hay.

Nye Hill Farm, Roxbury, NH: Nye Hill Farm in Roxbury was established in 1790 by Nathan Nye. In  2010 the property was purchased by Anthony and Deb Kline who were looking to resurrect the farm. The Klines established a certified organic farm and offer a seasonal farm stand with vegetables, fruit, maple and honey. They also sell wool from their own sheep and pottery from resident potters.  In addition to the farm stand they also sell to local restaurants and retailers. The farm is comprised of 116 acres including about 25 acres for fruit and vegetable production, 10 for animal pastures and much of the woodlands contain maple trees used for syrup production.  The Klines espouse a strong respect for the land and the principles of holistic care. The farm also operates a brewery on-site  and makes and sells beer. Nye Hill Brewery strives to use local and American ingredients in the brewing process.

The Stephen H. Taylor Agricultural Leadership Award, presented by the NH Farm, Forest & Garden Expo, recognizes outstanding work by an individual who works professionally in the field of agriculture. The 2022 award was given to Seth Wilner of Newport. Seth works as UNH Extension Educator, Agricultural Resources and Environmental Stewardship in Sullivan County, a position he’s held since 2000. He worked as a Peace Corps Volunteer and with Extension in Wisconsin prior to working in NH.

Seth focuses on farm planning and business management in his Extension work. He is dedicated to helping farms succeed and every family member on the farms he works with gets his attention in the process. Throughout his career, Seth has mentored farmers and colleagues.  He is described as the “glue” that holds the team together and gets things done. Seth exemplifies leadership in the field of  agriculture and embodies the spirit of the Stephen H. Taylor Leadership Award.

For more information about the NH Farm & Forest Expo, visit www.nhfarmadforestexpo.org.

Andrew L. Felker Award

The Andrew L. Felker Award recognizes distinguished achievement in fostering the economic advancement of agriculture in New Hampshire.

Fred E. Beane Award

The Fred E. Beane Award recognizes an individual or organization in the communications field for effective coverage or agriculture and public issues affecting agriculture in New Hampshire, including forestry.

Stephen H. Taylor Leadership Award For Agriculture Professionals

The Stephen H. Taylor Leadership Award recognizes an individual or business/organization currently working in the field of agriculture exemplifying leadership in the field of agriculture and consumer awareness and education regarding agriculture and agricultural issues.