Moon Valley Farm Founder Recognized for Growing Organic Agriculture, Supporting Fellow Farmers and Expanding Access to Fresh, Local Food
KUTZTOWN, PA.—October 2026—
Rodale Institute honored Emma Jagoz, founder and owner of Moon Valley Farm, with its 2026 Organic Stewardship Award in Farming during the farm’s Fall Festival on Oct. 17 in Woodsboro, Maryland.
A first-generation, self-taught farmer, Jagoz founded Moon Valley Farm in 2011 on less than half an acre of bartered land while raising two young children. Today, the farm encompasses 70 certified organic acres. Through its regional food hub, Moon Valley Farm partners with more than 75 local farmers to supply more than 100 restaurants. Moon Valley Farm has also served Maryland 12 school districts and more than 1,750 community-supported agriculture households.
“Emma shows what can happen when a farmer’s vision grows into a community effort,” said Jeff Tkach, CEO of Rodale Institute. “She has built a thriving organic farm while helping other growers succeed and bringing fresh, local food to more families. Her work is a powerful example of how organic agriculture can care for the land and strengthen the communities that depend on it.”
Jagoz also serves in the organic seat on Maryland’s Agriculture Commission and mentors farmers through FARMpreneurs, Future Harvest and the Transition to Organic Partnership Program. Moon Valley Farm partners with hospitals and nonprofits on Food as Medicine programs serving people experiencing food insecurity and managing chronic illnesses.
“I started Moon Valley Farm to grow nourishing, organic food that I could trust for my family and for my community,” says Jagoz. “Responsible soil stewardship is inextricably intertwined with the quality of food we’re able to produce, and I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned with the incredible community of farmers I’m proud to be a part of. This recognition from Rodale Institute is so meaningful to me and reflects the community who knows we must work together to leave the land healthier for generations to come.”
Rodale Institute’s Organic Stewardship Awards recognize individuals advancing the organic movement through farming, research, business and advocacy. The Farming award recognized Jagoz’s contributions to organic agriculture, including her work building a regional food network and supporting fellow farmers.
The award presentation took place during Moon Valley Farm’s Fall Festival, which brought community members together to connect with local farmers and experience a working organic farm. For more information, visit rodaleinstitute.org.
Click here to learn more about the Organic Stewardship Awards and see past recipients.
ABOUT RODALE INSTITUTE
Rodale Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to growing the regenerative organic agriculture movement through rigorous research, farmer training, and education. Named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in 2025, the Institute’s groundbreaking science and direct farmer support programs serve as a catalyst for change in farming and food production worldwide. Over its 78-year history, Rodale Institute has proven that organic farming is not only viable but essential to humanity’s survival. Learn more at rodaleinstitute.org.
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