7-30-2025 7:25pm

Seeded in Somerset: A Fresh Push to Support Local Farms and Flavor

Donnella Tilery Editor

There’s something special growing in Somerset County—and it’s more than just tomatoes and sunflowers. It’s a movement.

Earlier this spring, the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners announced a new initiative called Seeded in Somerset, and as your neighbors and editors, we think it's something everyone should know about.

So What Is Seeded in Somerset?

Simply put, it’s a county-led effort to celebrate and support the hardworking farmers, growers, and small food businesses that make Somerset such a rich place to live—not just in land, but in flavor and tradition. From pick-your-own berry farms to family-run CSAs and even the restaurants that bring it all together on your plate, Seeded in Somerset is about highlighting it all.

But it's not just a campaign—it's a promise: to connect residents with local agriculture, to keep farmland active and alive, and to remind us all of where our food (and flowers!) come from.

Why It Matters to You

If you’ve ever bought honey at the farmers market, visited Norz Hill Farm in the fall, or picked up fresh corn from a roadside stand, this initiative is for you.

The commissioners want to make sure our farms thrive—not just for today's generation, but for tomorrow's too. Seeded in Somerset is about helping those businesses grow, building partnerships, and encouraging residents like you to eat local, shop local, and explore what’s growing right here in our backyard.

How to Get Involved

We encourage our Raritan Neighbors readers to keep an eye out this summer and fall. You’ll start seeing more events, farm highlights, and new ways to enjoy agrotourism throughout the county. Whether it’s a sunflower maze, a wine tasting on a local vineyard, or grabbing a meal at a restaurant that sources its ingredients nearby, this is your invitation to take part.

Plus, if you’re a small farm, farm stand, or food-based business in or near our area, the county wants to hear from you. Seeded in Somerset is offering promotion, visibility, and support to help our local food system thrive.

Editor's Take

At Raritan Neighbors NJ, we’re big fans of the “shop small, support local” mindset—and this program is right in line with that. It’s one more reason to be proud of living in Somerset County.

I'll try to keep readers updated as more events and features roll out. In the meantime, grab some Jersey corn, say hello to your local growers, and get ready to experience all the fresh, flavorful, and down-to-earth goodness that’s Seeded in Somerset.

— Donnella, Editor at Raritan Neighbors NJ - raritanneighborsnj@gmail.com