Meet a Central New York Farmer – Robert Lamphere Farm in Poland

Big Frog, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County and Wagner Farms want you to meet the hard working families keeping us fed and clothed. This week we salute the Robert Lamphere Farm in Poland.

While most farmers grow up on a farm, few are actually the main operator when just a teenager. That's the story of Robert Lamphere's family farm on Harris Road in Poland. Robert assumed the reins when he was a mere 13 years old after the passing of his father. His formative years where spent waking early to milk cows before school and returning home to do it again. All while tending to planting, caring, and harvesting crops in the field and maintaining his school work.

Robert and his family have met other challenges along the way and persevered. In what could qualify as a tale from unsolved mysteries, lightening from a thunderstorm electrified parts of the milking barn and killed several cows. Robert just got more cows and continued farming.

Today, Robert, wife Jody, and sons Kayden and Noah run the operation milking cows and planting corn. His mother, Betty and brother Francis also reside at the farm that's been in the family for 60 years.

Jody's sister, Shawna Williams wanted to salute the Lamphere Farm, calling Robert,

 a dedicated man to his farm and providing for his family. He is one of the most dedicated farmers out there.

We couldn't agree more Shawna, thanks for sharing the story. And to Robert and his family, we say thanks for your hard work, perseverance, and dedication. You set a great example we can all live by, when the world hands you lemons you can still make milk.

Robert, Jody, Kayden, and Noah Lamphere

Robert Lamphere Farm in Poland

Robert Lamphere Farm in Poland

Robert Lamphere Farm in Poland

Know a farmer we should add to our list? Here's the nomination form, or send info on our Facebook page, our mobile app, or email polly@bigfrog104.com. Meet a Farmer is also made possible by New York Farm Net, a program of Cornell, Harbor Point Minerals, White's Farm Supply, and the US Army.

Want to take your support of Central New York farmers to the next level? The Save Our Farms, Save Our Food campaign with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County is offering a custom designed T-Shirt supporting farmers with any $25 donation. Get more info and order yours at CCEOneida.com