Bike the Barns Raises Over $10,000 for Local Food Programs

Rain is going to happen. What you do (or do not do) with it, is up to you.

In this case of Bike the Barns 2023 wet weather (like really wet), didn't douse the fun as 203 cyclists snuggled into the pavilion at Ausable Brewing Company to help raise over $10,000 for local food systems programming at Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA). And nearly half of those hearty folks hopped on their bikes to ride in the rain to the Babbie Rural and Farm Learning Museum, Northern Orchard, Mace Chasm Farm and North Country Creamery.

Dry clothes on, it was time for live music with Russ Cook, tasty Ausable Brewing Co. beverages and a delicious lunch courtesy of Northern Feast Catering and Dubb's BBQ.

“Farmers are out in these elements every day, rain or shine,” said ANCA’s Local Food System Program Director Adam Dewbury, who thanked sponsors and riders for helping boost the event fundraising total to over $10,000.

With the added influx of funding, ANCA will continue its work with with farmers and food entrepreneurs to identify gaps in the regional food system and provide opportunities for learning and growth. This essential work sustains small farms and small businesses, increases access to local food, and drives regional economic growth.

Special thanks goes to Ausable Chasm and Kuat Racks for providing raffle prizes. An additional shout of gratitude goes to cyclist Dick Scheutzow, who won a new Kuat bike rack. Dick didn't need the new rack so he sold it to someone who did and donated 100% of the sale back to ANCA.

Of course, none of it would have happened with a dedicated "Roadie" crew of BikeADK staff and volunteers from ANCA, including students from Ithaca College.

Plans are already in motion to bring Bike the Barns back to the Champlain Valley in 2024 where riders hope to soak up more of the region's agricultural story and hopefully some sun.