Students embark on a dynamic journey with instructors Leah and Andrew Ferrone, exploring the rhythm of nature through the changing seasons of upstate New York. Held in the vibrant, living classroom of Pitney Meadows Community Farm, each month features two sessions: one focused on nature-based science lessons and exploration, and the other on mindfulness practices inspired by the natural world.
“Nurtured in Nature” offers children the chance to immerse themselves in the environment, fostering curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and overall well-being. The program is designed for students in kindergarten through grade 5, ensuring it’s inclusive and accessible for children of all abilities to fully engage with nature and each other.
Our mission at Pitney Meadows Community Farm is to celebrate and explore agricultural education, healthy food production, and recreation on this preserved working farm. Pitney Meadows is a regional leader in community agriculture, engaging the public through hands-on learning, volunteerism, and innovative solutions to the food system. Our impact includes: • 120,000 servings of nutrient-dense produce donated annually through a collaborative of 25 hunger relief organizations (nearly 50% of our total production) • 120+ Community Garden beds available on a sliding scale, ensuring accessibility for individuals, families, and organizations. • Off-site gardens throughout our county hosted by community-based organizations serving individuals facing food and housing insecurity. • 11 acres of climate-smart food production, integrating CSA participation, farm education, and volunteer opportunities. • 30 acres under regenerative cover cropping, supporting biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience research. • A 24/7, self-serve farm stand featuring 25+ local farms and producers, strengthening regional food systems. • Year-round community engagement programs, including hands-on environmental education, workforce training, and food sovereignty initiatives. • Publicly accessible land, including a network of accessible trails and gathering spaces, fostering community connections.
