Lawrence P. Mahmarian
River Valley Community Grains

Larry Mahmarian is one of the founding members of River Valley Community Grains in Long Valley, NJ. Established in 2016, River Valley Community Grains mission is to use a collaborative approach to grain production with the hope of encouraging farmers to use regenerative agricultural methods and to help meet the growing demand for nutrient dense grains, local flour, “real bread” and healthy cereals in our region.

River Valley Community Grains hope is that the farmer, miller, and baker will engage in conversation on how to create healthful, delicious flours and food, while holding a shared vision of restoring the soils, waters, and health of our communities. 

A graduate of Fordham University School of Business Administration in the Bronx, NY, Larry became involved over the last several years in this regenerative and restorative local grain effort through both his connections with childhood friend Mike Hozer and further collaboration with Len Bussanich.  The opportunity to provide their communities with a healthier food alternative using such a versatile and diverse staple as grains seemed natural.  The history of grain production in this part of the state and the success of regenerative agricultural methods for grain production happening in other areas of the country, especially in the Northeast, was compelling.  

One of the most rewarding parts of this journey to date has been taking what was learned early on about potential barriers and unknowns around changes in agricultural practices, gaps in infrastructure and market demand and successfully validating the ability to support local grains in our region.