Farming and Climate Change: Preparing for Unpredictable Weather Patterns

Like most farmers, Clifford and Sorrel Hatch of Upinngil Farm are grappling with all that comes with climate change, including extreme weather conditions and shifting frost dates.

The 100-acre farm in Gill, Massachusetts, produces dairy, strawberries, tomatoes, and grapes. The farm has seen its frost dates change from May 15 to May 1, and in some years, the farm’s strawberry season has started as early as May and ended by June.

“Our two biggest crops are the milk and the strawberries. Dairy is a different business…animal agriculture will basically shield you from temperamental weather risks,” Clifford says. “The cows are a great buffer against the weather because they don’t care if it’s raining or pouring, and they can graze no matter what.”

The farm is featured in a new UVM Extension/USDA video on climate change and farming.

Watch the video here:

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