Farms in your backyard
Visit these websites to discover fresh produce right around the corner.
Local Harvest (localharvest.org) provides a comprehensive nationwide directory of family farms, farmers' markets, CSAs, restaurants, and other food purveyors. Enter your zip code for a list of the producers nearest you, or shop online for foods made locally that aren't available in stores or farmers' markets. The site also lists food-related events in your region, including farm dinners and panel discussions on sustainability.
The Robyn Van En Center for CSA Resources offers a large database of CSAs (wilson.edu/csasearch) as well as interesting historical information about the movement and resources for farmers.
Slow Food USA (slowfoodusa.org) has chapters around the country and hosts events showcasing local foods and farmers. Forums on the group's website allow users to swap restaurant and farmers' market recommendations as well as discuss big topics like sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and food politics. The group also organizes petitions and political action on food-related issues.
The FoodRoutes Network (foodroutes.org), a nonprofit organization based in Pennsylvania, organizes grassroots campaigns throughout the country to promote eco-friendly food production and local artisans. Use the site's map to locate food resources near you, or volunteer at your local FoodRoutes chapter to help spread the news about eco-farms in your area. You can also take the group's "buy local challenge" by pledging to spend $10 per week or more on locally produced food; the organization's resident farmer will be on call via e-mail to answer any of your questions during the challenge.
