Farm Stand Farmer Feature: Willow Marsh Farm, Nurturing Tradition and Sustainability

Right here in our backyard, nestled in the charming Town of Ballston, lies Willow Marsh Farm. This 132-acre gem has been lovingly farmed since the 1840s. Today, it’s nurtured by our neighbors, Chuck and Sara Curtiss, a husband-and-wife team passionate about preserving traditional dairy farming practices while ensuring their operations remain sustainable and their products exceptional.

At Willow Marsh Farm, they believe that happy, healthy cows produce the best milk. Their cows are more than just livestock; they’re part of the family. This commitment to their well-being means that the cows produce around 60-65% of the milk compared to those on large commercial dairies. But what they might lack in volume, they more than make up for in quality.

Dairy farming is influenced by many factors beyond their control. For example, high temperatures can cause heat stress in cows, reducing their milk production. To keep them cool and comfortable, the cows spend the hottest parts of the day in the dairy barn, where large fans create a refreshing breeze. They also have access to fresh, cold spring water through a specially designed water dish they can operate with their noses. It’s all about keeping the cows content, which in turn keeps the milk delicious.

Here at Pitney Meadows, we root deeply for our local farm partners, like Willow Marsh Farm. Our mission is to connect our community with the local food system, which includes educating everyone about seasonal foods and crop availability. Unlike grocery stores, our Farm Stand stock fluctuates with the seasons, and extreme weather events also impact availability. 

By prioritizing the health and happiness of their cows, Willow Marsh ensures that the milk and yogurt they do produce are of the highest quality. While this approach can sometimes lead to temporary shortages, it reflects a deep commitment to ethical farming practices and the well-being of their animals. We understand that sometimes, you may come to our Farm Stand looking for Willow Marsh Farm’s delicious yogurt, only to find it’s not available. Dairy farming is a delicate balance, and many factors can impact milk production. Willow Marsh Farm is committed to humane and sustainable farming practices, which means they don’t push their cows to produce more than they naturally can, especially during times of stress, like extreme heat.

At our Farm Stand, we are proud to offer products from Willow Marsh Farm. Their dedication to animal welfare, sustainable practices, and high-quality products aligns perfectly with our values. We invite you to explore and enjoy the exceptional dairy products from Willow Marsh, knowing you’re supporting a local farm committed to doing things the right way.

Next time you find that Willow Marsh yogurt is out of stock, remember the care and commitment behind every product they offer, and though you may be bummed, it is also a moment to learn about our local food system, and celebrate the ethical practices and immense care Willow Marsh Farm puts forth every day to create the yogurt we all love so much.

Together, we can support our local food system and enjoy the best that our local community has to offer.