Daniel Morales

I am currently the Director of Agriculture at a non-profit farm in NYC. I manage a small livestock department, crop production on ~4 acres of historic farmland, a large labor force of seasonal farmers, interns, and volunteers, and liaison with other parts of the organization to support larger goals. Prior to this role, I was the first farm manager at a private startup farm in Columbia County for three years. I was a key member of establishing the farm and turning a 10 acre hayfield into a productive year-round farm designed for a restaurant in NYC. I helped make decisions on infrastructure (fencing, irrigation, wash house design, landscaping, drainage, high tunnels and greenhouses, nursery) and helped create the farming systems for the ambitious and fast-moving project. I also established many marketing outlets during the pandemic when the partner restaurant was not open yet - many of which I still have connections with. My partner also shared in this experience as a manager.

Our plans are very straight-forward and achievable. We wish to farm a select number of crops for wholesaling to restaurants and specialty grocers. Our general plan is to grow 5-8 low-maintenance crops in large quantities - a simple crop plan will allow us to hone in on management and streamline our labor. Our practices are based on sustainability: financially, physically, emotionally, and ecologically. We value cover cropping, appropriate tillage, soil amending, use of high tunnels, use of tractors and labor-saving tools, and an approach based on simplicity and not overextending our abilities. We value our craft and believe our approach will allow the farm to succeed financially and provide us with a healthy lifestyle and reliable operation. As we establish ourselves and the business, our goal is to grow on 6 acres with the similar approach and employees that we are able to pay a real living wage to.