NOFA-NY (Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York) and Fishkill Farms are teaming up to host Farm Fest ’25!
What is NOFA-NY?
NOFA-NY is an organization of farmers, gardeners, and consumers working together to create a sustainable regional food system that’s ecologically sound, socially just, and economically viable. Through demonstration and education, they promote land stewardship, organic food production, and local marketing. They bring consumer and farmer together to make high-quality food available to all people.
Since 1983, NOFA-NY has been serving the organic and sustainable food and farming community. A year later, they became the first organic certifier in New York State. With the arrival of National Organic Standards in 2002, NOFA-NY established separate certification and education functions and offices, while maintaining a cohesive strategy to support the organic farming community. Today, they are New York State’s leading organization providing effective programs and services that promote sustainable, local, organic food and farming. NOFA-NY is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by their membership. NOFA-NY is one of seven northeastern state organizations that work together under the umbrella of the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) ‒ the oldest grassroots organic farming organization in the country!
Join the NOFA team for curated learning opportunities at Farm Fest!
Pollinators
Time: 11:00 am
Presenter: Teddy Tomao of NOFA-NY
Join NOFA-NY to explore the vital role pollinators—such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects—play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and food production. We’ll discuss how conventional farming practices can harm these essential species and why growing organically creates a safer, more supportive environment for pollinators. Discover how choosing organic helps protect biodiversity, supports pollination, and ultimately benefits both nature and people.
Cover Crops
Time: 1:00 pm
Presenter: Chris Kemnah of NOFA-NY
Join NOFA-NY for an interactive session to learn how cover crops—like sorghum and winter rye—build soil health, protect water, and support resilient organic farms.
Microscopy
Time: 2:00 pm
Presenter: Monique Bosch of CT NOFA
Come check out what healthy living soil looks like under the microscope! We’ll take a close up look at the microbes that make up the Soil Food Web, and learn how to take care of these critters, so we can grow healthy plants and food.
Advocacy Photo Booth
Time: All day
with Katie Baildon of NOFA-NY
Strike a pose for organic farming! Stop by NOFA-NY’s photo booth to snap a fun picture and show your support for local, sustainable, organic food and farms. Stick around to learn how you can advocate for your farming community.
Farm Fest is dedicated to celebrating local communities while advocating for a sustainable regional food system that’s ecologically sound, socially just, and economically viable. Join us for a fun day on the farm to learn from a variety of organic farmers and advocates by educational talks and demonstrations, as well as visiting the vendors, farm store, cider bar, and more!
Reservations to participate in pick-your-own are posted here: Pick-Your-Own Reservations. Live music with Northwest Passage begins at 12:00 pm.
Registration is free. Donations to support NOFA-NY and NY farmers are appreciated!