Snyder Farm Researchers


Check them out on our Investigators page!

From its inception, the Snyder Research and Extension Farm’s strength has been people. Undeniably, it is a beautiful farm: 390 acres of land growing 25 different crops, a teaching garden, three miles of deer fencing, ponds and irrigation systems, woodlands, a greenhouse, laboratory, and barns. But it’s not just facilities that make an organization outstanding. People have created a synergy here. This is a place where people come to pursue exciting agricultural endeavors.

Clifford and Melda Snyder were at the forefront of agriculture and outstanding civic-minded leaders in Hunterdon County. Clifford was president of the Hunterdon County Board of Agriculture for over 30 years. Melda was a director of New Jersey Farm Bureau – an unusual accomplishment for a woman. Their farm was a place where other farmers came to learn the latest techniques and local residents enjoyed Melda’s educational farm tours. Clifford and Melda Snyder had a vision for New Jersey agriculture that the Rutgers faculty and staff continue implementing everyday. Bequeathed to Rutgers in 1988, its purpose is to serve as an agricultural education center for farmers and non-farmers alike. Under Rutgers stewardship, the farm transitioned to a research and education center for Sustainable Agriculture.

Our people are celebrated for their expertise and ability to put knowledge to work on many levels. The Snyder Farm actively engages a variety of people with diverse needs and interests such as: area farmers – large and small; Rutgers investigators & instructors, interns, and students; local schools; Ag professionals; Master Gardeners; municipalities; and residents. The wide-ranging activities that occur here are rich and fruitful. They include: applied research, innovative demonstrations, gardening, gleaning to support area hunger programs, and public education events such as the Great Tomato Tasting.

No matter your level of agricultural knowledge, Snyder Farm has something for you to discover. Dig deeper into a subject we all find fascinating – our connection to the land, the source of our food. We welcome you to join us, become one of the people that make Snyder Farm a great place.