Title: The Untold Story Behind Duke Farms in Somerset—This NJ Pasture Changed Everything

Wed, 06 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000

The Untold Story Behind Duke Farms in Somerset—This NJ Pasture Changed Everything Nestled in the serene backdrop of Somerset County, New Jersey, lies Duke Farms: a sprawling 2,700-acre estate steeped in natural beauty, historic significance, and agricultural innovation. More than just a picturesque countryside retreat, Duke Farms has quietly transformed the region’s approach to land conservation, sustainable farming, and community engagement. This untold chapter of New Jersey’s rural history reveals how a former dairy farm evolved into a national model for environmental stewardship—and changed everything. ### From Dairy to Pioneer of Conservation Originally established in the late 1800s as a working dairy farm, Duke Farms began as a modest but vital agricultural hub in Somerset. Over decades, the farm maintained its roots in responsible land use, supporting local food systems and preserving open space through thoughtful stewardship. But what truly set Duke apart wasn’t just its continuity—it was its visionary shift toward conservation when many comparable farms were losing ground.