Warren County farmer Richard Gardner has officially joined the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture. Gardner, who represents the hay and grain industry, took his oath during the board's monthly meeting in Trenton.
Gardner owns Spring Ridge Farm in Asbury, which spans 225 acres and produces hay, corn, soybeans, barley, and oats. The farm also raises commercial beef cattle, broilers annually, and hogs for private customers.
New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn expressed confidence in Gardner's capabilities: “Rick’s extensive experience as a farmer and involvement with government provide an excellent background for his service to the State Board of Agriculture. He understands the many issues the agriculture community is facing, and his knowledge and insights will be invaluable in advancing the industry.”
Gardner is a fifth-generation farmer with a long history of involvement in agriculture and public service within New Jersey. In 1981, he co-founded the Warren County Livestock Association alongside retired Agricultural Agent Everett Chamberlain. He has been active on the Warren County Board of Agriculture since 1988 and has held several leadership roles there.
His contributions extend beyond agriculture into local governance. Gardner served on the Franklin Township Planning Board from 1985 to 2002, including seven years as chairman. He was also elected to six terms on the Warren County Board of Chosen Freeholders from 2003 to 2021.
Gardner's educational background includes graduating from both Delaware Valley College and the New Jersey Agricultural Leadership Development Program.
