By Blake Jackson
Veterans across New York are finding new direction in agriculture through the AgVets program, a Cornell Cooperative Extension initiative based in Jefferson County. The program supports active-duty and retired military members in discovering careers in farming. Since 2020, it has served more than 2,200 participants through farm tours, classes, and mentorships.
Ben Groen, a retired Army major and helicopter pilot, joined AgVets while planning his future farm. At Centerdale Farm, he learned from mentor David Hawthorne, a Vietnam veteran, about strong fencing and organized farm operations. Inspired by this experience, Groen began applying what he learned to his own farm.
AgVets mentorships vary in length and offer hands-on experience on different types of farms. These range from vegetable and mushroom growers to large-scale livestock operations. Mentors receive a small stipend for their guidance. The goal is to give veterans the tools and confidence to succeed in agriculture.
Jonathan Smith, a former Apache helicopter pilot, runs a 60-acre farm and credits AgVets with helping him transition mentally from military life to farming. Heather Buxton, a retired combat medic, found her passion in organic gardening during mentorships that included caring for newborn calves and learning about soil health.
Wil Moss, originally from Hawaii, joined AgVets after a deployment to Afghanistan sparked his interest in farming. In just 10 days, he gained experience in equipment use, animal care, pasture rotation, and more. He now dreams of building his own family farm.
Mentors like David Belding and David Hawthorne believe veterans are well-suited for agriculture due to their discipline and problem-solving skills. Programs like AgVets help build stronger rural communities while giving veterans a meaningful post-service path.
Veterans are not only learning how to farm—they’re building futures that benefit generations to come.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artiemedvedev
Categories: New York, Rural Lifestyle