Back in 1917, after struggling with a loss of profits and the rising cost of equipment and supplies, local farmers in Essex County banded together to find a solution. These founding farmers formed the Essex County Co-Operative Farming Association, in order to purchase larger quantities of farm supplies at a lower cost. These bulk purchases enabled them to aid struggling farmers in the area, providing much needed support for local families. Over the next 100+ years the organization has grown to over 6,400 members, with approximately 2,600 active today, all with the same principles in mind.
Today, the Co-Op is an old-fashioned country store that supports the farming community by selling locally grown plants and flowers, quality seeds, fertilizers, and animal feeds at the lowest possible prices. The Co-Op carries a wide range of pet foods and supplies, as well as clothing and gifts. In 2018, “The Barn at the Co-Op”, a 3000 square foot addition, expanded our pet department. The Barn at the Co-Op stocks quality brands like Fromm, Taste of the Wild, Canidae, OpenFarm, Wellness, Orijen, and Acana, along with just about everything else a pet might need.
Our warehouse stocks grain from Nutrena, Blue Seal, Purina, Poulin and ProElite for all types of livestock. Fencing, hardware and stock tanks along with feed buckets and other farm necessities are available in the retail store. Our equine, poultry and livestock aisles have the supplements and supplies needed to keep your animals healthy.
We also fill propane tanks for your grill or recreational vehicle. The Co-Op carries bulk landscaping materials like loam, mulch and compost. The Co-Op is a display location of Eastern Sheds, and offers other outbuildings such as chicken coops, rabbit hutches, picnic tables, and Adirondack chairs.
The Co-Op continues its tradition of giving back to the community by supporting a variety of local charities and animal rescues. We also offer Veterans a 10% discount of discountable items 7 days a week in appreciation of their service. Senior citizens can enjoy their 10% discount on Tuesdays.
Dockside pick-up is available to ensure our customers’ safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. We offer delivery of most items to locations within Essex County. Loft deliveries are available for large orders of hay and shavings.
The store is open to the public 7 days a week, and offers a large variety of items along with the charm and individual attention of a "Mom & Pop" store. Our dedicated staff is ready to share their knowledge and help our customers with their lawn and garden, livestock and home questions.
Have you seen the Co-Op lately?