2026 Farmer of The Year
Dave Chagnon
Dave's roots in Middlesex County run deep. Raised in East Brunswick and a lifelong resident of the area, he has always valued community, hard work and service to others. Although farming was not his first career, it became a natural path that combined his strong work ethic with his talents and passion as a culinary wiz in the kitchen.
In 2011, Dave and his wife, Joyce, founded Fresh Ponds Farm, building it with dedication, care and a genuine love for agriculture and the local community. Since then, Dave has become a respected leader and advocate for farming throughout Middlesex County.
Dave currently serves as President of the Middlesex County Board of Agriculture, a role he assumed in 2025 and is also a trustee of the Middlesex County Fair Association. In every position he holds, Dave goes beyond the title, generously giving his time and energy to support local agriculture, community events and 4-H fundraising efforts.
Known for his drive and commitment to preserving agriculture in Middlesex County, Dave represents the very best of what it means to be Farmer of the Year.