On Friday, September 12, dairy farm families from across the Northeast gathered to be recognized for their excellence at the New England Green Pastures Recognition Banquet at The Big E in West Springfield, Mass.
The Green Pastures program began in 1947, when New Hampshire’s former governor, Charles Dale, bet his state had “greener pastures” than anywhere else in New England. The claim evolved into a competition that recognized innovation and stupendous pasture management.
Extension services within each New England state facilitated the contest, and the program grew into an annual opportunity to recognize one extraordinary dairy farm in each state. Winners interview with the media, tour to promote their business and judge the nominated farms the following year.
In the 79 years since its establishment, the New England Green Pastures program has become a successful regional initiative that emphasizes the importance of a viable dairy industry in New England. The Green Pastures committees’ judging criteria include business management, crop production, herd performance, environmental practices and community leadership.
The Outstanding Dairy Farms of the Year for 2025 are:
- Vermont: Peter Rainville of Four Girls Dairy of Fairfax, Verm.
- New Hampshire: Beth and Courtney Hodge of Echo Farm of Hinsdale, N.H.
- Massachusetts: The Melnik Family of Bar-Way Farm Inc. of Deerfield, Mass.
- Connecticut: Kies and Jared LaVack of Fort Hill Farm of Thompson, Conn.
- Maine: Jacob and Jeff Bragg of Rainbow Valley Farm of Sidney, Maine
Each family received a silver pitcher and a sign naming their farm as a New England Green Pastures winner, as well as an invitation to attend The Big E during their Massachusetts visit.