When you buy from local farmers, you’re getting more than just fresh, flavorful food — you’re investing in your health, your community, and the land around you. Knowing your farmer means knowing how your food is grown — with care, transparency, and sustainable methods. Local produce travels fewer miles, which means less pollution, a smaller carbon footprint, and peak freshness on your plate.

You’re also supporting the local economy — keeping your dollars close to home, helping family farms thrive, and preserving the rural landscapes we all cherish.

Farms are more than food sources; they are open space, wildlife habitats, and the natural beauty that defines our region.

Delaware County has deep agricultural roots, historically known for its thriving dairy farms — and today, our remaining dairies and farmstead creameries continue to produce some of the finest milk and cheeses in the region. But the county’s agricultural landscape offers far more than dairy alone.

We are incredibly fortunate to enjoy a wide range of local foods, thanks to hardworking farmers and producers who raise high-quality beef, pork, lamb, goat, and poultry.

Our fertile fields and skilled growers yield an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops.  From crisp apples and juicy berries to heirloom tomatoes, the sweetest corn and specialty crops like gourmet mushrooms, there’s something for everyone.

We’re also home to some of New York’s best maple syrup producers and a variety of unique, locally harvested honeys.

Adding to the bounty, Delaware County boasts a growing craft beverage scene, with local cideries, breweries, distilleries, and wineries that celebrate our region’s agricultural roots — often using ingredients grown right here.  Among our agricultural jewels, we’re even home to sustainable aquaculture operations, offering vegetables and trout.

From field to glass, pasture to plate, Delaware County is a true treasure trove of delicious, nutritious, and locally crafted foods and beverages.  Whether you’re a chef, a home cook, or simply a food lover, there is much to delight your palate. And don’t forget to dress your table with the vibrant beauty of our locally grown blooms — the perfect finishing touch to a truly homegrown meal.

Thank you to all the farmers and producers who work hard every day to bring fresh, local food to our tables. Your efforts keep our county fed, our landscapes productive, and our communities connected. We also appreciate the support of Delaware County Economic Development as a funding partner in this initiative.

We encourage everyone to shop directly from our farms and farmers’ markets — it’s one of the best ways to support local businesses, preserve our working landscapes, and savor the flavors of the land we’re proud to call home.

As you may have noted, some of these farms are beginning to welcome visitors through agrotourism — offering on-farm experiences like tours, tastings, seasonal events, and pick-your-own produce. This growing effort helps farms diversify, connect with the community, and build stronger local food systems. Your support makes this possible. By visiting, sharing, and engaging, you’re helping this new part of our agricultural economy take root and thrive.