As rain finally comes down across the Seacoast today, crop fields (and farmers!) throughout our region are rejoicing. Rain provides a vital resource to our favorite local foods– bok choy, spinach, tomatoes and fall squashes– as they prepare their defenses for a long growing season of potential dangers: drought, bugs and other possible pests.
Farmers, too, are looking out on their fields with optimism as they gird themselves for the struggles of another growing season: poor crop yields and low turnout at farmers’ markets and farm stands. Support for local food through sales of CSA shares and product at local markets have been on the decline. With our action, we can reverse this disturbing trend.
We may not have control over winds and rain, or burning sun, but we do have control over where we spend our local dollars and what actions we take to support the success of our local farms. We know the positive impact they have on our health, community, economy, culture and environment and we have a key role in ensuring their success. In challenging times, our support has never been more important than it is today. We, the consumer, are the root of the local foods movement!
The local foods movement is made up of people just like us. They have families, day jobs and a variety of passions and interests. Leslie and “Has,” for example, are Exeter residents dedicated to conservationism and the environment. They understand that one of the best ways to effect positive change on their local landscapes and waterways is to support local farms and food.
“Why do we give to Seacoast Eat Local? Seacoast Eat Local is all about local: our local economy, natural beauty, health and the resurgence and renewal of local farmers growing our food. We believe that Seacoast Eat Local cultivates community by supporting the people who grow and raise our food and bring our community together at farmers’ markets”
Leslie and Has stand with local foods and farms, and with the work of Seacoast Eat Local. Together, we all stand up for our local foods future. Supporting the work of Seacoast Eat Local, in addition to shopping locally for yourself and family, provides needed help to our farm community. Through fundraising, Seacoast Eat Local is able to provide valuable services and education – helping local farms and markets to increase their outreach and revenue.
Please consider a gift to Seacoast Eat Local in support of our work to strengthen local farms and farmers’ markets. Your continued support is a powerful step in ensuring a strong future for local farms on the Seacoast.
Make your gift today.
Sincerely,
Jillian Hall, Director of Programs