The Blew family of Franklin Township has been honored with an award recognizing its outstanding farming practices, according to The Hunterdon County Democrat.
Bestowed for conservation, agriculture and community service, the 2011 Hiram Deats Award was given to the family that has been tilling the Oak Grove Plantation since 1977. Ted and Susan Blew, their four children, and a piece of John Deere farm equipment produce many marketable products on their 160-acre plot. The family has a 1938 John Deere Model G tractor.
Ted Blew serves as vice chair of the county land use board and Susan Blew is a member of the Agricultural Advisory Committee, the County Agricultural Development Board and the New Jersey Water Supply Authority. Both Blews serve Franklin Township’s Open Space Advisory Committee and the County Agricultural Board.
Union Square Green Market in New York City carries many products their property generates, such as all-natural pork, flour, meal, corn and popcorn.
The family also produces cookies, pies and bread as well as vegetables, herbs and flowers. The property grows 237 hot pepper variations, 70 sweet pepper varieties, and 253 types of tomatoes.
The farm plans to provide Angus beef in October.
Community service starts at top of NJ farm family
A New Jersey family honored with an agricultural award has a 1938 John Deere tractor.