Salamander Resort and Spa will host American Farmland Trust's first ever Harvest Supper, beginning at 5:00 P.M. on October 6th, celebrating the new American family farmer. The event is planned to address concerns that new family farmers face and how American Farmland Trust is leading the way in protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices, and keeping farmers on the land.

The evening celebration begins at 5:00 P.M. with a social cocktail hour showcasing canapés prepared by nationally and regionally recognized chefs including Chef Melissa Close Hart, Palladio Restaurant, Barboursville Vineyards; Chef Angelo Vangelopoulos, Ivy Inn (Charlottesville, Va.); Chefs Christophe and Michelle Poteaux, Bastille Restaurant (Alexandria, Va.); and Chef Jerry Hollinger, Daily Dish (Silver Spring, Md.). The Buzzard Hollow Boys will be performing live bluegrass music.

Following canapés, New York Times bestselling author Bill Cohan will lead an inspiring panel discussion with selected guests from American Farmland Trust's Board of Directors on the difficulties that new family farmers face in today's market economy. Insights on the new American family farmer will be shared by Miranda Rockefeller Kaiser, Executive Director and Co-Owner of the David Rockefeller Farms in New York and Kentucky, Co-Owner of Hayes Ranch in Montana and Chair of American Farmland Trust's Board of Directors; Tom Gallo, celebrated businessman of the world's largest family-owned winery, E. & J. Gallo Winery; Nancy Hirshberg, retired Vice President of Strategic Initiatives for Stonyfield Farm; and Craig McNamara, President and Owner of Sierra Orchards and Founder of the Center for Land-Based Learning.

The evening will culminate with dinner served within the Salamander Resort & Spa's English style barn boasting beautiful oak beams and lavish natural sunlight, and prepared by five-time James Beard Award Nominee, Chef Todd Gray. Following dinner, the Washington Post's Food Editor, Bonnie Benwick, will share insights into the dynamic food industry and how it impacts new family farmers. It will truly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Reservations are available and can be made at www.farmland.org/HarvestSupper before September 20th.