Allen & Robin Cockerline 

Whippoorwill Farms

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Allen & Robin have lived & farmed in the Northwest Corner of CT since the 1970’s. Allen remembers growing up with the “ol’ timers” in the 50’s and 60’s, many of whom started farming before tractors were commonplace. A lived connection to a bygone era of agriculture, Allen has bridged the gap forward as he has works to mentor and develop countless farmers throughout his career. From his start as a vegatable farmer in the 70’s, to his small dairy operation in the 80’s and 90’s to his complete embrace of grass-fed beef farming in the early 2000’s. Bucking the trends at the time, Allen went steadfast into the world of Grass-fed beef, and has inspired many in his wake. Allen recalls 2006 as the most pivotal year for Whippoorwill Farm. This was when Michael Pollan’s “Omnivores Dilemma” was published. Michael Pollan lives locally, and  frequents the farm store. Omnivores Dilemma brought enormous attention to the regenerative opportunities of grass-fed beef, and the choices we make about the food we eat.

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Allen joined the Fairfield Farm team back when it was the “Blum Farm” in 2007 and has worked with the school to manage the pasture at the Farm since. In the beginning days of the farm, Allen was essential in the early crop planning, planting, and harvesting. When a Farm Manager was officially hired in 2014, Allen became a supporter, and mentor for Ellie Youngblood ’10. Allen says that he is most proud of the good work that has happened in New England farming and the embrace of grass-fed beef as a whole. While no one likes competition, the collective work of farmers across the region have been inspired by the pioneering work of Allen & Robin Cockerline.