It took some time but, ultimately, with the help of the Berkshire Natural Resource Council, Wyrrick and Comstock were able to work out a plan for Many Forks Farm to continue under Comstock's ownership.
Last week, ServiceNet announced its acquisition of the 16-acre flower farm on Crane Avenue. It will be renamed Prospect Meadow Farm Berkshires, which is a part of the agency's Developmental and Brain Injury Services division.
MDAR Deputy Commissioner Winton Pitcoff pointed out that farmers are also a big contributor to the state's fight against climate change, as they steward the land, take care of natural resources and take care of natural resources.
Owner Jim Schultz detailed Red Shirt's organic, regenerative farming practices, low carbon footprint operations, and dedication to food access that led to building a store.
These lands may not be on the soil survey but are being used for agriculture and, under the federal program, it would be up to towns to designate they are of "local importance" for preservation.
One of the main things Lebeaux heard throughout the day was validation for the Food Security Infrastructure Grant program that is through the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. The state Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) also works closely on the program.
About 10 acres on Oblong Road in South Williamstown currently is under contract to be sold to a buyer interested in residential development on the parcel.