Living Local: The Benefits of Supporting Your Local Farm and Farmers Market

As the weather warms and the growing season comes to life, our local farmers markets are opening across New Jersey and New York—and with them comes an exciting opportunity to live local, shop fresh, and make a real impact right where you live.

We’re proud to be part of 16 farmers markets (in season) across NJ and NY and to offer farm-fresh shopping at four of our own locations, Chester, Chester/Mendham, Jefferson/Wharton and Bridgewater. 

These markets are more than just places to buy produce—they’re community cornerstones with benefits that ripple through local neighborhoods in meaningful ways.

 Local Dollars Go Further

Did you know that money spent at a local business has nearly three times the impact compared to spending at a national chain? That’s because local businesses are far more likely to recirculate your dollars within the community. When you shop at a local farm or market:

  • You’re supporting local jobs and helping families thrive.
  • You’re contributing to a network of small businesses—many of which supply each other, creating a ripple effect of growth.
  • You’re helping to preserve farmland and keep agriculture alive and active in your area.

Each dollar you spend on local produce, baked goods, or plants at our farm or markets is a vote for a stronger, more sustainable local economy.

 The Farm at the Heart of It All

Local farms play a central role in a community’s well-being. On our farm, we take this responsibility seriously, working to maintain preserved farmland, offer seasonal pick-your-own experiences, and now, proudly lead the revitalization of Alstede Fresh at Larison’s Corner in Chester.

After decades of agricultural decline, farming has officially returned to this iconic spot. Cleanup is underway, and the transformation is just beginning. We’re thrilled to breathe new life into the Larison’s property and to invite the community along for the journey as we develop our Alstede Fresh Market at this cherished location in the years to come. 

Building Stronger Communities
When we choose to shop, dine, and participate locally, we do more than support small businesses—we help foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Communities with engaged residents often enjoy:

  • Greater safety and security
  • Stronger social bonds
  • Enhanced quality of life, with more parks, events, and public spaces

A trip to your local farmers market is more than just a grocery run—it’s an opportunity to connect with neighbors, meet the people who grow your food, and celebrate the vibrant fabric of local life.

Ready to Join the Local Movement?
Visit us at one of our 16 farmers market locations or stop by the farm—we’d love to see you!

And be sure to keep an eye on Larison’s Corner in Chester, our newest market-in-the-making. After more than two decades of decline, active agriculture and food production have returned to this historic site—a meaningful first step in its revitalization. Cleanup is underway, and exciting changes are beginning to take shape—just take a look at the early improvements to the front of the historic house! More updates to come. 

Stay tuned, you’ll notice steady progress as we work to bring our Alstede Fresh Market at Larison’s Corner to life over the coming years. Our family is proud to lead this restoration effort and honored to preserve a piece of Chester’s heritage.

Let’s grow a stronger community, together.

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