February News

Sustaining local agriculture can come down to maintaining an interested work force. Two farmer-support ideas got some traction with the food hub members and will be researched over the next few months: getting youth and young adults interested and experienced in farming; and assisting with adult apprenticeships that would support farmers if they needed time off or leave for an emergency.  We welcome any thoughts or experience you may have to offer.

Last year we offered 13 different workshops on gardening, homesteading, and related topics. At our last member’s meeting a few of last year’s topics were requested again this year like making yogurt, pruning apple trees, and composting, so we hope to offer these again. So far, we’ve been able to offer these for free, but we know there are some professionals that deserve some reimbursement and are hoping our fundraising will be able to provide these funds. John Connell and Sandy Wilmot have started the workshop list for March that will include tool sharpening, pruning apple trees, backyard sugaring, and raising chickens. Details will be coming soon.

Our newly formed Fundraising Pod, led my Rose Rochford, is making plans for several events this year. During blueberry harvesting time we will sponsor a Blueberry Jam. This will be a community event to include music, food, a pie eating contest, bake sale, and product sales by local producers. Stay tuned as this event develops wings. A second fundraiser will have use going to where the crowd is, think Harvest Market. We plan to have a table to raise money as well as promotional information.

Not all opportunities we pursue come to fruition. The State Agency of Agriculture recently offered a grant to local food hubs to support distribution of local agricultural products to school’s lunch programs. Our members jumped on the opportunity. Marj Wainwright participated in the State’s webinar to learn details. Emily Tompkins met with the Mount Mansfield Union High School nutrition team to develop a plan. Everyone was excited. But in speaking with the State contact Emily learned that we wouldn’t qualify since our food hub does not have an existing distribution center. Tough break.

Our website now has several new features. One important addition is the “Give” page which allows us to take online donations to support our operations. Another new page is the “Resources” page that provides links to local food and agriculture related organizations as well as copies of recipes from the food hub’s community meals. Check these out!