Locavores

Locavores,

Those who have been a part of local food scenes for some time may have experience with a random box of goodies… and are probably better off for it. Some do really well with opening a big box of produce, getting ideas for meals from the item of most abundance, and highlighting the seasonal ingredient. Some find that idea terrifying and need a recipe along with a cooking mentor. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) was, and still is, a great business model for small farmers not relying on subsides and loans. The goal is to support the farmer with a financial commitment before the produce is harvested! This typically takes the form of a subscription to a single farm but happens in all forms and fashions. It’s a way to say “I support what you do, and I will pay you upfront for your commitment to growing food.” Some CSA’s encourage you to volunteer on the farm, some allow to you to pick items from their market stand, while others have a weekly box ready for pickup on their farm. The key component is that the community is consistently supporting the farmer throughout the year. This is also one of the goals behind Northeast Georgia Locally Grown. This is a year ‘round market so you continue to get fresh food and farmers continue to have a source of income. We have many farmers that grow produce for only the summer months, some that use the winter to regenerate healthy soil, and some able to extend their production into the winter months. Some growers even prefer the colder months due to less pests and extended life cycles! Regardless, I am excited to see what will make its way to the market throughout the year! Every season, subtle changes happen as individual growers take different approaches based on their resources, past experiences, and customer feedback.

This market combines elements of CSAs, Farmers Markets, and Food Hubs. We are not having an identity crisis, but rather one of the puzzle pieces in rebuilding food systems based off of the demand for fresh, local, and sustainable foods. It is pretty amazing to be able to support farmers throughout the year, and it wouldn’t be possible without YOU!

Eat Well, Buy Local All Year

Andrew in Hall,
Teri in Habersham,
and Chuck in Rabun