Region: Windham, NY

Farmers' Markets

Windham offers a variety of farmers' markets where residents and visitors can connect with local farmers and producers.

• Windham Farmers' Market: Held every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, May through October, this market showcases a diverse range of vendors selling farm-fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal creations, and more. It's located on Main Street across from The Windham Local, a popular eatery in town 1.
• Windham Farmers' Market at Turning Leaf Drive: Open from May 18th to September 28th, this market is situated on Turning Leaf Drive (off Route 302) at the intersection with River Road, near the Stockhouse Restaurant & Sandbar Pub 2. The market includes vendors selling farm fresh foods and plants, baked goods, and an ever-changing selection of artisanal creations 2.
• Left Bank Ciders Thursday Night Market: For those who can't make it to the Saturday market, Left Bank Ciders hosts a lively indoor farmers' market every Thursday from 5 pm to 8 pm, June 1st to November 1st 3.

These markets provide a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the bounty of the Catskills while supporting local farmers and artisans.

Farms

Windham is surrounded by a number of farms that contribute to the region's agricultural landscape. Here are a few notable examples:

• Scribner Hollow Farm: Located in East Jewett, near Windham, this small farm focuses on non-GMO, naturally-grown crops 4.
• Mountain Brook Farm: This family-owned and operated farm offers New York Trail Rides and Farm Experiences, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature and agriculture 5.
• Vidbel Mountain Homestead: A five-generation farm offering farm education for children, animal encounters, and stunning views of the Catskill Mountains 6.

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs are a vital part of Windham's local food system, connecting consumers directly with farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture. CSA programs have seen a surge in popularity, particularly during the pandemic, as people seek ways to access fresh, local produce while supporting their community 7. Here's a summary of CSA options in the area:

CSA Program
Cost
Offerings
How to Join

Stoneledge Farm
Varies
Certified organic vegetables, with optional shares for fruit, coffee, mushrooms, and dry beans
Visit their website at www.stoneledge.farm

Neversink Farm
$460-$480 for a 20-week share
Fresh vegetables, farm tours, and a direct connection with the farmers
Contact Conor and Kate Crickmore at (845) 985-2519 or visit their website at www.neversinkfarm.com

By joining a CSA, you can enjoy a weekly share of the freshest produce while contributing to the long-term viability of local farms.

Restaurants

Windham offers a diverse culinary scene with several restaurants prioritizing locally sourced ingredients.

• Union + Post: This new American restaurant features seasonal dishes inspired by local farms, offering a sophisticated dining experience in a cozy setting 8.
• Catskill Mountain Country Store: This unique restaurant serves breakfast all day, with many dishes featuring locally produced ingredients like free-range organic eggs and hormone-free milk 9.
• Catamount: This restaurant offers breakfast and dinner, featuring contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative twists on classic dishes 10.
• The Windham Local: This community-oriented cafe, restaurant, and bar highlights fresh ingredients from local farms in their lunch and dinner menus 11.

These restaurants showcase the diversity of culinary experiences available in Windham, from casual cafes to upscale dining, all with a focus on fresh, local flavors.

Specialty Food Shops and Bakeries

Windham is home to a variety of specialty food shops and bakeries offering unique and delicious treats.

• Catskill Mountain Country Store: This country market offers a wide selection of gourmet foods, including homemade jams, jellies, breads, pies, and more. It's also a TasteNY attraction, recognized for its quality and local sourcing 12. For families, it features a playground and a farm animal rescue zoo 13.
• The Windham Local: In addition to their restaurant, The Windham Local offers a cafe menu with premium coffee and espresso drinks and fresh pastries baked daily 14.

Bakeries

• La Patisserie Normande: This French bakery is known for its exquisite pastries, cakes, and breads. Their offerings include Napoleons, chocolate eclairs, apple tarts, croissants, and specialty cakes, including wedding cakes 15.
• Catskill Mountain Country Store: Their in-house bakery offers a wide variety of baked goods, including breads, pastries, cakes, and their famous apple cider donuts, all made from scratch with the finest ingredients 16.
• Babblers Restaurant, Bar & Bakery: Located within the Wylder Windham hotel, this bakery offers a selection of pastries and baked goods 17.

These bakeries provide a delightful array of treats for every taste, from classic French pastries to homemade donuts and breads.

Hunting and Fishing Regulations

Windham provides access to abundant natural resources, including opportunities for hunting and fishing. However, it's crucial to be aware of the regulations to ensure responsible and sustainable practices.

Hunting Regulations

• Hunters in Windham must adhere to the New York State Hunting Regulations, which include specific rules regarding licenses, seasons, and restrictions 18.
• In certain areas, there are restrictions on rifle use. For example, in Westchester County and on Long Island, it is illegal to use any rifle or crossbow for hunting 18.
• When hunting in the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, hunters must obtain a Wallkill River NWR Hunting permit in addition to all applicable state licenses and permits 19.

Fishing Regulations

• Anglers in Windham need to have a valid New York State Fishing License and follow the state's fishing regulations 20.
• Access to certain fishing areas may require additional permits. For instance, fishing in North Lake/South Lake requires an access pass from the DEP 20.
• Specific regulations apply to fishing in border waters, so it's essential to check the rules for those areas 21.

By following these regulations, hunters and anglers can contribute to the preservation of Windham's natural resources for future generations.

Agricultural Zoning and Land Use

Windham's agricultural zoning and land use regulations play a crucial role in preserving farmland and guiding development in the region.

• Greene County, where Windham is located, has established Agricultural Districts to protect and enhance farmland as a vital economic and environmental resource 22.
• Windham is currently in the process of developing a zoning law with the help of a local Zoning Commission 23.
• The proposed zoning districts include Rural Residential, Hamlet Residential, Business, and Resort Development, each with specific regulations for land use and development 23.

These regulations aim to balance development with the preservation of Windham's rural character and agricultural heritage.
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Indigenous History
Mohican Trail
Ancient footpath used by Algonquin sub-tribes passed through Windham valley

Area contained numerous Indian encampments

Artifacts like arrowheads discovered throughout valley

Colonial History
Main street formed part of historic Mohican Trail

Long agricultural history with numerous farms operating over centuries

Building & Zoning Regulations
Current Regulations
No current zoning law
Development governed by Site Plan Law, Setback Law, and Sign Regulations
Planning Board review required for new development/expansion
Special requirements for commercial and multi-family development
Proposed Zoning Districts
Rural Residential
Hamlet Residential
Business
Resort Development
Planning Requirements
Commercial development, multi-family residential development, or single-family homes on parcels under 2 acres or greater than 3,500 gross square feet require Planning Board approval.

Economic Development
Windham, NY, boasts a diverse economy with a mix of main-street businesses, mountain resorts, and tourism. The town includes the historic main street of Windham itself, and the surrounding hamlets of East Windham, Hensonville, and North Settlement, as well as the hamlets of Maplecrest and Brooksburg in the Catskill Park.

Opportunities for Growth
Trail-Based Recreation: The Windham Area Recreation Foundation (WARF) is working to establish the Windham region as a four-season destination
Arts and Culture: Windham has a thriving arts and culture scene supporting local artists and galleries
Business Support: Greene County offers various economic development programs
Recent Developments
Windham Mountain Redevelopment
New residential development, base lodge improvements, expanded adventure center

Windham Skye Subdivision
Proposed 30-lot subdivision on County Route 10 under review

Community Land Acquisition
34 acres in Hensonville planned for community use including baseball fields