Open house at six ‘distinctive' area farms set for Aug. 26

WARWICK —Six area farms will be open to the public Saturday, Aug. 26, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Families are invited to tour some of the area’s most important and distinctive agricultural businesses and experience farm life. Visitors will get to meet the farmers and learn how their family farms operate while enjoying hands-on activities, fun and games Activities include: seeing how cows are milked; getting a calf ready for the County Fair; a hay ride; seeing horses go through their routines; learning which flowers and shrubs will grow best in your garden; how to plant a planter; driving through an apple orchard and learning which of the dozens of varieties growing in the Warwick Valley will make the best pie; looking into a 10-foot deep trench to learn how this rich soil has been built up over thousands of years; kite flying and seeing a master chef show simple techniques for bringing out the best in fruits, vegetables, and herbs. There will be discount coupons, and lots of information about how farms preserve and protect the land and how they contribute to the growing local economy. Cost is $25 for adults, $10 for ages 6-14 (under 6 is free). This event will take place rain or shine and tickets must be purchased in advance. For additional information and to purchase tickets call the Orange County Land Trust at 845-343-0840 or visit their Web site at www.orangecountylandtrust.org. This program is presented by the Orange County Land Trust, a not-for-profit organization devoted to preserving open space by protecting working farms and supporting other traditional land uses; preserving water quality in our lakes, streams, and rivers; protecting wildlife, natural ridgelines and vistas, and providing recreational opportunities for people. Folks can bring their own kite, or use one provided.