Sep 19, 2024
Over 230 years young and looking to the future
Lansing's Farm Market and Greenhouse, in Colonie New York, has been providing the community with farm-fresh produce, vibrant plants, and a welcoming atmosphere for generations. Established in 1788, and now run by 8th generation farmer Al Lansing, the farm has become more than just a market. Today it’s a hub for high-quality, locally sourced food and gardening essentials, seasonal activities and conversation.
HVADC has been happy to assist Lansing’s, helping them complete a large new barn to house their successful CSA operation. Funding through the NYS Grown & Certified program, which HVADC administers, provided the farm with the ability to finance vegetable wash station upgrades, as the program requires. The CSA allows its 250 members the ability to pick from a selection of in-season items, on three different days of the week.
To assist farmers achieve NYS Grown & Certified status, the Hudson Mohawk Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. and the HVADC partner to administer the grant program in the Capital District Region. Grants are awarded for capital projects that enable qualified agricultural producers meet the food safety standards necessary for participation NYS Grown & Certified.
“We worked with Mary Ann (Johnson, HVADC Deputy Director). It was very easy and they gave us the help we were looking for,” said Al Lansing, whose children Patrick and Jessica work with their father to carry the family legacy forward. Lansing has also put the farm under an agricultural preservation land easement with the Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy to make sure the property stays a farm for another two centuries.
“It’s a family farm and we’ve had the opportunity many times, but we’ve done so much to keep it going, I hope it’s here forever,” Lansing said. “My customers are very appreciative and supportive. They’re proud to have the farm hear. It’s like a jewel of the area.”
At Lansing's, customers can find a wide variety of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. If they aren’t from the fields and greenhouses on the property they are harvested from other local farms that Lansing knows personally. The market’s dedication to locally grown produce means that each trip supports area farmers and helps sustain upstate New York’s agricultural heritage.
“I don’t think the Capital Region gets the respect it deserves for the quality and vibrancy of its agricultural community. You don’t have to drive very long out of Albany before the region’s historically important family farms spring up,” said Johnson, “Lansing’s is an amazing place that has stood the test of time due to the spirit of a wonderful family and the high quality of their products.”
Beyond fresh produce, Lansing’s Greenhouse is a plant lover's paradise. Offering an impressive selection of flowers, shrubs, and gardening essentials, Lansing's Greenhouse is a springtime destination for all your landscaping and horticultural needs. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your garden with colorful blooms or start your own vegetable patch, the knowledgeable staff at Lansing’s is always ready to help with expert advice and personalized service.
Lansing’s has become a part of the fabric of the local community. In 2022 Lansing’s was named to the New York State Historic Preservation Business Registry after being nominated by Assembly member Phil Steck. The new program highlights businesses that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to their communities’ history.
Lansing’s is an old farm looking to the future. With harvest season events and an ever-increasing selection of local products, Al Lansing says the farm is busier than it’s been in a long time. He’s grateful to his customers for their patronage and feels like the community has really begun to recognize the work they’ve done.
For more information about the NYS Grown & Certified grant program, visit https://www.hvadc.org/nys-grown-and-certified.