Climate change, species decline and ecological breakdown brings renewed attention to what farms grow and how they grow them. One big question growers face is how do my crop and production choices affect my environment? And are there changes I could make to minimize negative impacts or even create positive ones?

In this presentation, Matthew Dell of Treadlight Farm will look at how floriculture and horticulture has a unique opportunity to create productive spaces that also serve local ecological systems. By choosing more native species over exotic species, growers can create habitat for local fauna while also bringing unique products that command a premium to floral markets. He will also discuss production methods for maximum profit and impact, challenges, and sourcing.

Treadlight Farm grows on 15 acres in New York’s Rondout Valley, and sells wholesale specialty cuts throughout the greater NYC metropolitan area. They are certified organic and passionate about native plants, and have been in business since 2015. Website: https://www.treadlight-farm.com/