Bob Rozycki knows you only reap what you sow, and he”™s growing more than just support for the local farming community: The New York State Agricultural Society selected the Hudson Valley Business editor-in-chief to receive the 2007 Harold L. “Cap” Creal Journalism Award for his article, “Home Grown.”
“I understand a farming couple had read the story and submitted it to The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets,” said Rozycki. “When I received the call it was such a surprise, I thought someone in the office was pulling my leg.”
The agricultural piece was featured in the March 26, 2007 issue of Hudson Valley Business and profiled farmer Cheryl Rogwoski and her unique farming method that “includes plastic tunnels that allow the growing of vegetables through the harsh winter season,” said Rozycki. Her hard work was recognized when she received a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation award in 2004 that came with a “no strings attached” $500,000 check. Rogowski was the first farmer to receive this award.
Rozycki”™s inspiration to write the piece came from the growing plight of small farmers.
“As the price of land rises, farmers near retirement age are finding it easier to sell their land to developers rather than to pass it on because of the hard work involved,” said Rozycki. “Farmers, especially in the Northeast where the growing season is limited, need to adopt Cheryl Rogowski”™s methods.”
On Jan. 10, 2008, Rozycki will receive his award at the society”™s 176th annual meeting luncheon, which will be held at the Holiday Inn in Liverpool-Syracuse. In addition to the awards ceremony, the annual forum will host a variety of speakers who will discuss alternative energy and its impact for New York agriculture. New York State Department of Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker will also present the “State of the State”™s Agriculture” address, reviewing the growth and future of the industry.
Overall, Rozycki believes that it”™s not just the farmers who need to revamp their methods.
“Changing the mindset of consumers to buy local is difficult for farmers,” said Rozycki. “Consumers often go for the lowest price rather than the freshest available vegetable or fruit. By farmers and consumers working together, we can save small farms and help support the economic development of the region.”
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