Carbon Farm Tour 2025!
On September 13th, we hosted the 6th Annual Carbon Farm Tour in collaboration with the New York Fibershed- an event that brings together farmers, textile professionals, and fiber enthusiasts for in-depth conversations on carbon farming, regional fiber production, and sustainable design.
This year’s tour was held at Faraway Farm Alpacas, one of the farms participating in our Carbon Farm Network Program, producing regional New York State Climate-Beneficial fiber. Farm owners Steve and Leda were our gracious hosts, sharing the farm’s history, their journey into regenerative agriculture, and demonstrating their on-site soil amendment practices.
We were also joined by Mary Kate Randolph, Climate Beneficial Systems Director at Fibershed, who offered insight into carbon farm planning protocols. Additionally, Clyde Carpenter, Lab Manager at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, gave a live demonstration on micron fiber testing conducted right on-site.
After a short break, attendees explored climate-beneficial textiles and goods from New York Textile Lab, Imperial Yarns, and beautifully woven regional fabrics by Tuscarora Mills.
The day continued with an engaging panel discussion on local production, regional textile systems, and design for social and environmental change. The panel was moderated by Laura Sansone - climate activist, Parsons professor, and founder of NY Textile Lab, and featured a diverse group of leaders in sustainable practices:
Dave and Heidi of Tuscarora Mills, a U.S. textile mill creating high-performance fabrics from responsibly sourced natural fibers
Eric De Feo, Head of Operations at Made X Hudson, a sustainability-driven fashion company and CFDA-approved small-batch garment factory
Stephanie Virissimo, Alumni Coordinator at Custom Collaborative, a nonprofit empowering women and gender-expansive people in fashion
Susan Easton, Product & Marketing Director at NYFIC, building meaningful supply chain connections between NY-grown fiber, designers, and brands
Mahdiyyah Muhammad, from the Black Fiber & Textile Network, fabric alchemist, regenerative fashion educator, that in her work fuses African ancestral practices and sustainable design
It was an inspiring and successful day of learning, connection, and action. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who attended and supported this important work!
