This article appears as part of Hawthorne Valley’s 2024 Annual Impact Report: The Biodiversity Edition. We invite you to explore the full report and learn more about our work to renew soil, society, and self through the integration of education, agriculture, and the arts here.
Hawthorne Valley continues its commitment to bringing fresh, nutrient-rich food to communities throughout the NYC metro area, maintaining a consistent presence year-round at eight markets, including seven unique locations, every week. These markets serve as vital hubs for connecting urban residents with the bounty of sustainable agriculture, fostering relationships that extend beyond mere transactions to genuine community connections.
In response to ongoing environmental challenges, we have refined our market operations to align with our values of sustainability and efficiency. Our team has transitioned to reusable packing containers, significantly reducing the use of disposable plastics, and streamlined our truck routes to minimize fuel consumption. These changes not only reflect our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint but also support a more cost-effective and reliable workflow, ensuring that fresh produce reaches our customers in peak condition.
Despite facing challenging weather conditions and occasional truck maintenance hurdles, our dedicated market staff remains resilient and solutions-oriented. Their positivity and adaptability are key to maintaining the high-quality experience our customers have come to expect. Thanks to their efforts, we continue to meet sales goals, achieve strong gross margins, and manage labor costs effectively—all of which sustain the long-term viability of this program.
The impact of these efforts extends far beyond the markets themselves. For many, our stands represent access to food that nourishes not only the body but also a deeper connection to sustainable farming and the natural world. Customers often express their gratitude for the opportunity to buy directly from a farm that values both the health of the planet and the communities it serves.
As we look to the year ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide nutrient-dense food to the NYC metro area, enhancing food security and environmental stewardship while continuing to inspire trust and loyalty among our customers. By staying on our current path of thoughtful innovation and dedication, we aim to strengthen our impact and uphold our role as a beacon of sustainable agriculture in an urban context.
by Zach Tattersall-Hill, Director of Sales and Production
