The Pasture-to-Processor Trailblazer
Growing up on Walt’s Dairy in Copake, NY, Summer Kiernan’s roots run deep in the fertile soils of the Hudson Valley. Walt’s Dairy, a cornerstone of the Hudson Valley Fresh cooperative, has been a beacon of quality and community involvement since 1927. This award-winning farm, known for its commitment to excellence, has instilled in Summer a profound respect for agriculture and the importance of sustaining local farms. From a young age, Summer’s life was intertwined with the rhythms of farm life, from caring for Holstein cows to participating in town politics, ensuring that her community’s voice was always heard.
Summer’s journey with Hudson Valley Fresh began with her active involvement in every aspect of the farm. From showing cows at the prestigious World Dairy Expo, often referred to as the Olympics for cows, to learning the intricacies of dairy production through various internships, Summer’s passion for agriculture grew alongside her knowledge. Her dedication to the industry led her to Cornell University, where she further honed her skills and deepened her understanding of processing plant sales, cow care, and overall animal care. Today, as a key player in Hudson Valley Fresh’s sales and quality control team, Summer’s expertise ensures that the highest standards are maintained from farm to table.
At Hudson Valley Fresh, Summer’s commitment to supporting small farms and preserving agricultural heritage aligns perfectly with the cooperative’s mission. Hudson Valley Fresh is dedicated to producing fresh, premium-quality dairy products while maintaining sustainable practices that protect over 7,000 acres of open land in Columbia, Dutchess, and Ulster Counties. The cooperative’s farmers, including those at Walt’s Dairy, are recognized for their excellence in dairy production and their dedication to cow comfort and facility cleanliness, which is evident in the superior quality of their minimally pasteurized, non-standardized whole milk.
Summer’s role extends beyond quality control; she is a passionate advocate for the future of agriculture. Through community engagement initiatives, such as conducting tastings and educational visits to local schools with calves, Summer and Hudson Valley Fresh foster a connection between consumers and the farms that produce their food. These efforts not only educate the public about the importance of supporting local agriculture but also inspire the next generation to appreciate and continue the legacy of farming in the Hudson Valley.
The success of Hudson Valley Fresh is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its farmers and team members like Summer. The cooperative’s commitment to strict quality standards, such as maintaining somatic cell counts well below industry averages, ensures that their milk is of unparalleled quality and taste. Hudson Valley Fresh’s milk is processed locally in Kingston, NY, guaranteeing that it reaches consumers within three days of leaving the farm. This dedication to freshness and quality is what sets Hudson Valley Fresh apart from other dairy producers.
Summer Kiernan embodies the spirit of Hudson Valley Fresh- warm, community-focused, and passionately committed to sustainable agriculture. Her journey from the fields of Walt’s Dairy to her current role within the cooperative highlights the importance of preserving the agricultural heritage of the Hudson Valley. Through her work, Summer continues to support local farms, advocate for quality dairy production, and ensure that the rich, nutritious milk of Hudson Valley Fresh remains a staple in the homes of their community.
Watch our spotlight video on Summer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnhpODEEM9g