Ed Pitcavage, Land and Livestock Manager
Vermont Farm Becomes Permanent Community Resource Dedicated to Organic Regenerative Agriculture
Vermont Business Magazine Philo Ridge Farm announced today that it has successfully completed its transition to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, establishing the farm as a permanent community asset dedicated to the future of food and agriculture in Vermont. The Philo Ridge Farm Foundation will focus on promoting organic regenerative agriculture through hands-on research, education, dining, and community engagement.
This milestone marks the completion of a thoughtfully planned transition that began in November 2023, when Philo Ridge Farm first announced its intention to evolve from a for-profit business to a nonprofit organization. This change ensures Philo Ridge Farm will remain a multigenerational resource for farmers, researchers, and the community.
"This represents our commitment to ensuring that Philo Ridge Farm will serve Vermont for generations to come," said Diana McCargo, co-founder of Philo Ridge Farm. "When we started this project in 2012, our goal was to establish a thriving farm. After more than a decade of learning and growth, we are proud to formalize our commitment to supporting the future of food and agriculture in our state."
Located in Vermont's Champlain Valley, Philo Ridge Farm stewards more than 500 acres of pastureland, forests, and diversified produce gardens. The farm rotationally grazes heritage breed livestock and cultivates certified organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers, while serving as a practical demonstration site for sustainable farming practices.
Research and education have been central to Philo Ridge Farm's vision since its founding. Through years of data collection and partnerships with local and national organizations, the farm has explored and documented how organic regenerative practices can have a net positive impact on the environment. This commitment to scientific inquiry and knowledge sharing has been foundational to the farm's mission from the beginning and will continue to guide its future path.
"We believe a key part of Vermont's agricultural future is to keep working lands working," said Peter Swift, co-founder of Philo Ridge Farm. "As a nonprofit living laboratory, we will provide opportunities to explore innovative and ecologically sustainable farming practices, deepen our understanding of food systems, and feed our community."
Philo Ridge Farm is also excited to announce it will welcome the public back to the farm this summer. Throughout the transition period, the farm has continued to operate with a focus on land stewardship, infrastructure improvements, and research initiatives. In preparation for reopening, Philo Ridge Farm is hiring for several positions to support its food and beverage program, which will include the return of both its dining facilities and Market. Additional details about reopening plans will be announced in the coming months.
For more information about Philo Ridge Farm and its mission, visit PhiloRidgeFarm.org.
About Philo Ridge Farm
Philo Ridge Farm is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) working demonstration farm located in Vermont's Champlain Valley. Using innovative and ecologically sustainable practices, we steward over 500 acres of pastureland, forests, and diversified produce gardens. We rotationally graze heritage breed livestock and cultivate certified organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
Our mission is to promote organic regenerative agriculture through hands-on research, education, and community engagement. As a nonprofit living laboratory, we provide farmers, students, and the public with opportunities to explore sustainable food and farming practices. Through educational initiatives and collaborative partnerships, we seek to deepen our understanding of food systems, environmental stewardship, and the essential role of agriculture in building resilient, healthy communities.
Charlotte, Vt., March 24, 2025 – Philo Ridge Farm
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