I M P O R T A N T R E A S O N S T O B U Y L O C A L L Y G R O W N
Where else does your food dollar pay for guaranteed freshness, flavorful variety, maximum nutrition, environmental protection, farmland preservation and support the local economy?
Locally grown equals maximum nutrition. Freshly harvested produce has nutrients that are depleted during transportation and storage. The average grocery store vegetable travels 1200 miles and is a week old.
Variety. Many of the best tasting fruits and vegetables are too tender to withstand shipping and handling.
Assurance of farm practices. Much of the produce imported into our country has been treated with chemicals that are banned or unregulated in the U.S. Meat, poultry and dairy products when raised locally using sustainable practices eliminate the use of hormones and antibiotics. When you buy from local farmers questions about farming techniques can be answered reliably.
Local farmer support. Marketing directly to consumers allows small farms to capture a greater percentage of profit, making it possible to survive. Ensuring the economic viability of the farmland makes it less vulnerable to development.
Supporting the local economy. By spending your dollars in the community your money remains cycling within the local economy.
Direct environmental effects. Buying local reduces the amount of fossil fuels used for transportation and the packaging required for shipping. Our members use environmentally friendly practices, which means your vegetable does not pollute the soil and ground water as it grows.
