On Monday, February 10th, Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (LD18), alongside County Executive Ed Romaine, the Suffolk County Department of Parks and representatives from Kerber’s Farm, announced a new partnership for the use and management of a portion of the Froehlich Farm Nature Preserve in Huntington. This collaboration enables Kerber’s Farm to cultivate vegetables and flowers, continue essential pollinator pathway initiatives, and offer hands-on educational programs that connect students with Long Island’s rich agricultural history.
“We are thrilled to be working with Legislator Stephanie Bontempi who spearheaded the efforts for our school to lease land from Suffolk County as part of our education programs. We will teach students the importance of sustainability, organic farming practices, and healthy eating habits. This is a great opportunity to allow students of all ages to roll up their sleeves and get involved with farming and celebrate Suffolk County's rich farming history. I am also grateful to County Executive Ed Romaine, Nick Gibbons from the Parks Department, and Dr. Jim Wright, Parks Trustee; all of whom advocated for the partnership.” said Nick Voulgaris, Owner of Kerber’s Farm.
“The public-private partnership between Suffolk County and Kerber’s Farm is an exciting opportunity to expand educational opportunities for students of all ages and to protect our pollinators, such as bees, at Froehlich Farm Nature Preserve,” said Romaine. “Agricultural education is a part of Suffolk County’s history and an integral part of our future.”
“This partnership is a wonderful opportunity to support local agriculture and educate our local youth about the importance farmland sustainability,” said Legislator Bontempi. “By working together, we are preserving both the history and future of farming on Long Island right here in Huntington.”