Faces of Massachusetts Agriculture

Judy and Don Leab

Ioka Valley Farm, Hancock

Dairy farmers for over 30 years, with one of the top producing herds in the state, Judy and Don Leab own and operate Ioka Valley Farm in the Berkshire County town of Hancock. They are now actively involved in a very diversified farm operation with their son and daughter-in-law.

The farm produces natural beef, hay, shell corn, Christmas trees, strawberries, pumpkins and maple syrup. During the summer months an agri-tainment facility called "Uncle Don's Barnyard" keeps Judy very busy.

Don and Judy are both very involved in many agricultural organizations and committees at both the state and federal level. Most recently Judy served as President of Berkshire County Farm Bureau. They both take an active role in their local community, serving as an assessor, finance committee member, board of appeals, school committee and community development advisory committee.

Judy serves on the State Board of Agriculture and Don is an advisory board member and consultant for MDAR's Farm Viability Enhancement Program.