Family-owned Hunterdon County farm growing certified organic, regenerative heirloom grains, from wheat berries to fresh-milled flour.
Deborah and Jason DeSalvo found Cold Brook Farm in 2019 after leaving suburban life in Montclair, New Jersey. Drawn to its 43 acres of fields, woods, and wetlands, they became farmers to restore land that had been conventionally farmed for decades.
Working with grain-farming partner Jay Vogelaar, they introduced regenerative and organic practices. Their primary grain field has followed a six-year rotation since 2020, earning organic certification in 2024 and Real Organic Project certification in 2025. Their stewardship also includes restoring native plants, managing woodland, and supporting wildlife habitat.
The farm offers whole grains, freshly milled flour, and cereal and porridge products, with local farmers and mills helping process the harvest in small batches. The family also grows more than 70 varieties of fruits, vegetables, berries, and nuts.
Meet the founders
Deborah DeSalvo
Co-founder and farmer
Deborah is a Master Gardener and environmental educator focused on birds and native plants. She serves on the Board of Trustees of the Raritan Headwaters Association and the Executive Board of the Montclair Bird Club.
Jason DeSalvo
Co-founder and regenerative farmer
Jason became a regenerative farmer after a career in healthcare business management. He co-founded Strategic Outpatient Services in 1995 and remains its CEO, and serves on the boards of Ethos Farm Project and Tewksbury Land Trust.