The Burlington County Commissioners recognized the Infante Farm in North Hanover on Mar. 12 for its efforts in land management and stewardship, presenting it with the annual Bill and Dorothy Pettit Farm Stewardship Award for 2025.
The award highlights the importance of preserving farmland and supporting sustainable agricultural practices within Burlington County, which is New Jersey’s largest county by area at 827 square miles, according to the official website. The recognition is given to owners of preserved farms who show a strong commitment to both agricultural production and responsible land care.
Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, who serves as liaison to the Department of Resource Conservation, Parks and Farmland Preservation, presented the award during a Commissioners’ meeting. “Burlington County is proud of the tens of thousands of acres of farmland that we’ve successfully protected, but we know the job of maintaining this land and keeping it productive falls to our farmers,” Eckel said. “Good stewardship takes a lot of time, hard work and resources. We are grateful for farmers like the Infante family who are making this effort and setting an example for other farmers and landowners to follow. We commend you for all you do to keep Burlington County green, beautiful and productive.”
Infante Farm is located off Croshaw Road in North Hanover on a 91-acre property that joined the County Farmland Preservation Program in 2007. After purchasing it in 2008, the Infante family restored its farmhouse and converted what was once a grain farm into a field and hoophouse nursery operation. In 2019, they shifted again to sod and row crop production, restoring former hoophouse sites and installing a center pivot irrigation system designed to maximize water efficiency while reducing fertilizer runoff into groundwater.
The family also addressed erosion issues through ditch maintenance and other activities aimed at improving soil health. Commissioner Randy Brolo said, “Agriculture is a major part of Burlington County’s history, culture and economy and we are excited to recognize farmers who are not only carrying on this tradition but also investing in conservation activities that keep their land sustainable. We all benefit from their hard work and commitment.”
Burlington County operates under a Board of County Commissioners with five at-large members; Eve Cullinan serves as county administrator according to the official website. The county includes three cities, six boroughs, thirty-one townships—forty political subdivisions total—and features Historic Smithville Park among its natural sites according to the official website. Community programs such as Outstanding Women of Burlington County awards recognize local contributions according to the official website, while public services like the Burlington County Library System aim to enrich lives through learning opportunities according to the official website.
The recognition given to Infante Farm underscores ongoing efforts by local government officials and residents alike toward sustainability across agriculture—a sector deeply rooted in Burlington County’s identity.
