Jim and Marnie Stanko’s journey began in different parts of New York—Jim grew up on Long
Island, while Marnie was raised in Waverly, NY. They met at SUNY Stony Brook in 1973,
married in 1976, and initially lived in a restored 1740s farmhouse on Long Island.
However, a career opportunity led them to rural northwest New Jersey, where they discovered a shared passion for preserving historic homes and farmland. They purchased a 200-year-old farmhouse, the first in what had once been an agricultural area. Yet, as they started their family, the farmland around them was rapidly developed into housing.
Their son, Tracy, developed a close bond with the last farmer on their road, which sparked his interest in farming. He purchased his first tractor and dreamed of starting a custom fieldwork business. Inspired by friends who continued farming in New York, Tracy’s passion grew, leading him to SUNY Cobleskill, where he studied Dairy Herd Management and Power Equipment Technology.
Expanding operations
In 2003, he found a 184-acre dairy farm in the Town of Deerfield, NY, and relocated to pursue custom fieldwork. Tracy soon expanded his operation, purchasing the farm and establishing Redline Farms with his wife, Becki. Together, they turned Redline Farms into a thriving
dairy operation, producing milk and feed.
As Jim and Marnie prepared for retirement, they found a 137-acre farm neighboring Redline Farms, offering an opportunity to support Tracy’s growing business. Purchasing the farm allowed Redline Farms to expand its arable land and enhance its sustainability practices.
A critical component of the Stankos’ success has been the Farmland Protection Implementation Grant, which helps safeguard their land from development and keep it dedicated to agriculture. The grant, secured by the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust, supports Tracy and Becki’s efforts to improve Redline Farms’ productivity while protecting the land for future generations.
The Stankos’ commitment to the environment is shared across the family. Their daughter, Gwen Sivirichi, is a Senior Technical Director at AKRF Environmental Consultants. With degrees in biology and environmental sciences, Gwen’s work in environmental impact studies—including a recent project for the Micron Semiconductor facility in Clay, NY—reflects the
family’s dedication to conservation.
Creating a sustainable legacy
The Stanko family’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of farmland conservation, particularly as urbanization continues to encroach on agricultural lands. Their dedication to preserving farmland not only sustains their family’s legacy but also supports the health and sustainability of the Tug Hill region. By expanding their operation and embracing sustainable farming practices, the Stankos contribute to the vitality of local food systems and the preservation of the agricultural landscape.
We are proud to highlight the Stanko family, celebrating their efforts to sustain and grow their farming legacy. Their story encourages all of us to recognize the critical role of farmland preservation in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for our community.
Is conservation right for you, or someone you know?
Would you like to protect your land? Do you know someone who might be interested in protecting their farm, woodlands, or wetlands?
People protect their land for a variety of reasons. For many, it’s a way to ensure their love of the land will remain intact after they leave. For others, it’s a way to honor their parents and grandparents. Sometimes it helps with estate planning or financial management plans.
If you would like to explore if conservation is right for you and your family, contact Mark Pacilio, Executive Director at 315-779-8240 or email mpacilio@tughilltomorrowlandtrust.org.
All conversations are confidential to provide your family the privacy it needs to make a decision that is right for you.