Let the Sun Shine In: 4 Farms Open Doors to Highlight Renewable Energy

You’ve been wondering about that wind mill that went up down the road for a while now.  Or you’ve been curious about those solar panels on the neighbor’s barn that you watched fall into place, piece by piece.  How much did those installations cost?  How much electricity do they provide?  Could you afford to do the same?

Well, now you can get plugged in to the details of renewable energy at a farm near you - without having to peek over the fence. During the month of September, four farms around New York will open their doors to the public for a guided tour of their energy saving stategies and renewable energy systems.

This year’s farm energy field days include something for everyone. Dani Baker and David Belding are the owners of this highly diversified organic farm, with retail sales of vegetables, eggs, beef, chicken, goat and pork.  Dani and David will lead us on a tour of their recently completed sustainable energy project, including a 10KW wind turbine and a 7KW solar array.  Combined with a 17kw back-up generator for emergencies, it is expected that this project will supply almost all of the farm's need for electricity.  The wind and solar are grid-connected with net metering so no back up battery system is required.  The farm is also an international agri-tourism destination, offering educational organic farm tours and on-farm primitive camping.  Cross Island Farms is certified organic by NOFA-NY Certified Organic LLC.  Find directions to the farm at www.crossislandfarms.com 

This field day is free and open to the public.  Refreshments will be served. For specific dates, times, and locations, see below. Please contact Violet Stone at 607-255-9227 or vws7@cornell.edu to register. To register, contact Violet Stone at 607-255-9227 or vws7@cornell.edu. This event is co-sponsored by Cornell Small Farms, SARE, NOFA-NY, and USDA Risk Management Agency- Small Sessions Program.