Agricultural Resources

This page is dedicated to information on agricultural resources as part of the South Whitehall Landscapes preservation plan. 

Click below to view the meeting recording from our Agricultural Professionals Panel discussion on August 15, 2023. More information on our panelists and other partners can be found at the bottom of this page. 

Meeting #2 - Agricultural Resources: Agricultural Professionals Panel

Joel Newhard, Newhard Farms

Joel is a 4th generation local farmer who has been involved in the family agricultural business all of his life. Newhard Farms is a staple of South Whitehall and the surrounding area, growing corn, wheat, soybeans, and their specialty sweet corn which is sold along with other local fruits and vegetables at "The Corn Shed" in Ruchsville.

Chad Butters, Eight Oaks Farm Distillery

Chad is the Founder & CEO of Eight Oaks, a local farm and distillery that makes a wide range of spirits including bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka, and gin. Chad retired from the military and moved to the Lehigh Valley to start an agricultural business with his family. Chad has a deep love for the Lehigh Valley and a passion for supporting local businesses and the community.

Kegan Hilaire, Blackbird Farms/Rodale Institute

Kegan runs Blackbird Farms, a certified organic diversified vegetable production, currently operating at The Seed Farm in Vera Cruz, Pennsylvania. Kegan's production is primarily for wholesale use or as part of his Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). Kegan is also part of the Rodale Institute's Organic Consulting Team, specializing in Small Farms and Diversified Vegetables.

Madeline Squarcia, Buy Fresh Buy Local

Madeline is the Coordinator of Local Foods and Environmental Initiatives with Buy Fresh Buy Local, a program of the Nurture Nature Center out of Easton. Madeline is working to build the Greater Lehigh Valley local food economy through education and promotion of local food partners and improving access to fresh food.