The Backbone of Stony Kill Farm
The Friends Groups
The cordial greeter in the Manor House, the knowledgeable instructor for the school class, the busy gardener in the Perennial and Herb Gardens are all part of the Stony Kill Foundation, Inc. or the Verplanck Garden Club. These generous folks volunteer their time and talents to our not-for-profit support groups. The October Bird Seed Sale is one of the Foundation's annual fundraisers.
Stony Kill Foundation, Inc.
Chartered in 1977 the Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. It lends support for the operation and development of the Stony Kill Farm EEC which is owned and operated by the NYSDEC. The Foundation is financed through membership dues, program fees, fund raising events, donations from the public, and general contributions. All donations to the Foundation are tax deductible. Membership is open to individuals, families, and organizations. There are ample volunteer opportunities scheduled through the Foundation's Volunteer Coordinator. What does the Foundation do for Stony Kill Farm? Sponsors Community Garden Plot Program; supports publication of Center's quarterly newsletter The Almanac; provides stipends for interns and volunteer instructors; provides financial support for programs and exhibits; offers scholarships to educational nature camps; sponsors fund raising activities and gift shop; finances efforts to renovate 1700's tenant farm house; and more.
Verplanck Garden Club, Inc.
Established in 1988, the Verplanck Garden Club's objectives are to encourage interest in, and education of our community in all phases of home gardening, sound horticultural practices, civic beautification, the conservation of our natural resources, and the enhancement of the grounds of Stony Kill Farm EEC. Also a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. The club meets the second Tuesday of each month at Stony Kill Farm EEC and maintains raised bed gardens for people with disabilities, a perennial garden and wildflower loop. Educational programs are scheduled throughout the year and are offered to the general public as well as Club members. Presentations and discussions on Integrated Pest Management, mulching, deer resistant shrubs and plants, pruning, as well as presentations of local interest areas.
Common Ground Farm
Common Ground Farm is a new Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project at Stony Kill Farm. What is CSA? Community Supported Agriculture is a simple partnership: members buy shares of the farm's harvest in advance, and the farmer provides a weekly supply of delicious, fresh produce. The CSA movement supports farmers and helps protect open land while providing members with a source of good healthy food. For more information contact Common Ground Farm at (845) 831-6070.
