In 2020, we shared the below story in our member newsletter. Today, we’re delighted to announce the completion of this project! On January 25, 2023 G and S Orchards became permanently protected by Genesee Land Trust. Now 6,830 acres of land across the region will always remain farmland, forest, wetland or meadow.

“We have some of the best soil on the planet, and it’s vitally important we protect our farmland now for future generations. G and S Orchards is the 19th family farm we have protected, and we are so thankful that Gary and Stephanie have taken this step to ensure their farm will continue to grow food.,” says Lorna Wright, Acting Executive Director of Genesee Land Trust.

To celebrate, we are hosting a Blueberry JamBoree on August 12, 2023 at the orchard. For more details and to register, visit: 2023 Blueberry JamBoree — Genesee Land Trust.

Fast Facts: G and S Orchards

200 Acres in Walworth, NY

Popular u-pick, farmstand, and CSA

Owned by Gary Craft and Stephanie Ludwig since 1992

2020 Story:

In 1992, Gary Craft and Stephanie Ludwig took the plunge and bought Herb Smith’s 130-acre fruit farm in Walworth that had been established in the early 1800s. In the next 28 years they added 70 acres and lots of varieties of fruits and vegetables.

With the expansion of residential development all around them, “we know that our farm is in a perfect position to be successful or to become houses,” said Stephanie. G and S Orchards combines hands-on experiences with high-quality fruit and vegetables for Pick Your Own customers, loyal farm stand shoppers, and seasonal CSA (community supported agriculture) members.

Growing their farm into a diversified and resilient business keeps Gary and Stephanie busy every day during the season and focused on the future.

Never Giving Up

Worried about the future of their farm, the Crafts were among the first local farmers to consider the sale of development rights as a way to be sure it will continue for another 200+ years. This is a real worry; small family farms like theirs are disappearing all across the country, while at the same time, young farmers are struggling to gain access to good farmland.

“We know how hard it is to find a good farm and how much we had to sacrifice to buy this land and build a viable business,” noted the Crafts. And, without children to pass their farm on to, they are making sure it will be easier for the next owner to get started, according to Stephanie “We know they are likely to be similar to us back in 1992 – farmers at heart but without a farm of our own.”

“It’s been over fifteen years since we first started thinking about working with Genesee Land Trust and Wayne County to permanently protect our farm,” according to Gary. “Whenever they would hold a meeting about farmland protection grants we were in the room ready to try again.”

Gary and Stephanie are getting closer to seeing their dream for their farm become a reality. In 2018, Genesee Land Trust’s team secured funding for a New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets grant to protect the farm and are now finalizing the conservation easement that will ensure the farm is not subdivided for houses or other development and will always be available as a farm.

And when asked about retirement, Gary’s response was, “I like it too much. Slowing down might not be a bad idea, but we’ll continue to put our hearts and hard work into this farm until that day comes. Who knows – maybe we’ll be doing this for another 28 years.” Stephanie laughed and said, “We’ll see.”