Staff Highlight: Patrick Lang, Wholesale Manager and Workshare Coordinator

Patrick Lang is returning to the PFP for a second full season, farming, managing the wholesale program, and coordinating shareholder work hours. Patrick first came to the PFP in 2013 between semesters teaching at City Colleges of Chicago. As a farm intern with minimal growing experience, he brought infectious energy and an aptitude for learning, and quickly demonstrated his commitment to the PFP (sometimes too much commitment, for instance weeding carrots on hands and knees for two days while nursing a foot injury). As cliché as a “life-changing experience” may be, it certainly seems to be accurate in Patrick’s case; he chose to return as a farm apprentice in 2014 and is back again, after spending a year in Minneapolis, MN.

Patrick grew up in Great Barrington, MA, and heading to some large, vibrant cities after college was a welcome change for him. Working now at the PFP and having returned to this region, the vibrancy he describes is that of resilient nature, of diverse people doing good work together, and of sharing the experience with folks who are newer to the farm and to farming. There is a good chance that you’ll see Patrick off of the farm if you spend time in Poughkeepsie; he walks or bikes for just about all of his transportation (including when he makes lunch for the crew). He has offered bicycle repair and maintenance lessons and service during CSA distribution in the past, and we look forward to this possibility in the future. Patrick is excited to grow food once again for this community and to see the farm buzzing with activity. If you’re a working CSA member, expect some words of sarcasm and wit from him in your inbox throughout the season!