International Crop Pot

January 1st, 2014

The new year is always a time for new resolutions and new beginnings. One of the most common resolutions is to shed weight after the holiday season. We all enjoy feasting on homemade sweets and dishes, but when January rolls around it's time to put away the cookie sheets and turn a new page. Resolutions for me have always been challenging, whether it is trying to live a healthier lifestyle for myself or make a difference for others. Finding something you can stick with can be tricky, but this year I have found a resolution that everyone should get involved with. 

Catalyst For Change

This year's resolution is to use locally grown products as well as donate to family farmers across the world whenever possible. What better way to get motivated then to stand behind a greater cause. This year the United Nations has declared 2014 the International Year of Family Farming (IYFF). Such a declaration can be a catalyst for change, not only in your own homes but around the world. 

But why is this important? The IYFF aims to raise the profile of family farming by focusing world attention on its significant role in eradicating hunger and poverty. Family farmers provide food security, nutrition, and achieve sustainable development in rural areas. 

This resolution not only holds a place near and dear to my heart, but is also a way to teach my kids and family how to give back to the world in a healthy and sustainable way. 

Farmers Around The World

Farmers are overlooked as an essential part of the food supply chain. Everyone needs food to survive, so why is it that family farmers everywhere do not receive enough credit? 

With over 500 million family farms around the world this industry is a global neccesity. Family farming represents an opportunity to boost local economies all over the world.

It is the predominant form of agriculture in developed and developing countries. Seventy percent of the food insecure population lives in rural areas of Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Near East and have poor access to natural resources and technologies. 

Therefore, international cooperation is key to fostering change and creating sustainable solutions to the world's food security issues. 

Get Internationally Involved

From the comfort of your own kitchen you can start to make a difference. There are numerous organizations out there that serve as a middle man between donors and farmers in need of support. You can easily become a part of that relationship so make it your resolution to give back in at least one way in honor of the International Year of Family Farming.

If you're looking to jumpstart your resolution try searching for a non-profit organization that is globally connected such as Heifer International.  

Food For Thought

November 23rd, 2013

Thanksgiving has always been a time for family, feasting and fun. A long standing tradition in my family has been to produce our dinner from local farms. Upon leaving to go pick up the vegetables my daughter asked me a question, "Mom, why don't we just get our food from Walmart?" Instead of saying, "because I said so!" I decided to take her on a field trip to show her just how important buying local is. It is not just supporting the local community; it's about supporting families and the future of farming.

Why Should You Care?

Family farming is one of the most important industries in the U.S. economy. It provides a place of self-employment and plays a large role in our community.

It's not about the size of the farm but about its impact on the way we live. It links generations with history, memories and carries a sustainable promise into our future.

In 1960 a U.S. farm family fed 26 people, this year they'll feed 155 people. With our ever-growing population this is extremely significant. Supporting 24 million jobs in the U.S. alone small farms play a big role in America's future.

However, the goals of farmers are often interrupted by the prominence of big box stores in today's society. Sometimes one stop shopping can appear easier and more affordable among our busy daily lives.

The truth is quite the opposite. For example, a family of four could live for ten years off of one acre of wheat. While obviously this would not be a complete diet, it illustrates how sustainable and productive small farms can be. They are also typically healthier, fresher and more organic.

Family farming creates more than just fresh vegetables, it creates a time to bond with your family and give back to the community. It's about going to the local pumpkin patch, running through a corn maze, picking fresh apples, going on a hay ride and even picking out this season's Christmas tree. Farms can offer our community a lot more than many may assume.

Be sure to checkout America's Farmers Instagram
for a look into the daily lives of America's farmers.

Get Involved

Fact of the matter is we need family farms just as much as they need our support. America's farmers do not only grow America, they grow the world. Do your part and buy locally. It's healthier for you, healthier for your family and healthier for our community. So as you're shopping for this thanksgiving feast, take the time to go local.

Feel free to share stories or pictures from your local farm excursions this holiday season below.