GLOVER — A Northeast Kingdom farm known for introducing the first Dutch Spotted sheep to the Western Hemisphere has been named Vermont’s 2024 ‘Fantastic Farmer’ award recipient.
MKVT Farm, operated by Mark and Karen Rodgers in Glover, will receive a $5,000 grant from the A. Pizzagalli Family Farm Fund. The farm-to-table operation specializes in pasture-raised sheep, pigs, chickens, and turkeys.
“My job as a farmer is to convert photosynthesis into food for the population,” said Mark Rodgers. “Ultimately my goal is to leave the world a better place when we have completed our journey as temporary stewards of our small part of the world.”
The award recognizes farmers who demonstrate exceptional land stewardship, resource management, and commitment to educating the public about Vermont agriculture.
The Pizzagalli Fund also supports two other agricultural initiatives: the Vermont Barn Painting Project, which provided up to $8,000 in micro-grants to nine barn owners this summer, and the High-Quality Milk Awards.
The 2023 milk quality awards went to Howmars Farm of Franklin ($2,500), Essex Farm LLC of Vergennes ($1,500), and Mark & Susan Rushton of Grafton ($1,000).
“These investments are making a difference to our farmers and Vermont,” said Vermont Agriculture Secretary Anson Tebbetts.
