BENEFITS OF BUYING LOCAL

 
1. Buying from the local farmer not only financially benefits the farmer but the community as well. Today’s farmer receives less than 10 cents of the  retail food dollar. When farmers sell directly to the consumer, the middleman is cut out thus producing a higher profit for the farmer. The farmer then circulates his profits throughout the community with local merchants creating a cycle that helps to build a strong local economy.
2. Buying from the local farmer allows him to profit which in turn reduces the likelihood that he will have to sell his land for development.  Agricultural landscape will only survive as long as the farmer is profitable. Family farms that are well-managed value the resources of fertile soil and clean water. Cover crops are grown to prevent erosion, replace nutrients and capture emissions. Many species of wildlife are in a perfect environment in the patchwork of our farmers’ fields, hedgerows, and ponds.

3. Buying from the local farmer ensures healthier and better tasting food. Studies prove that fresh produce loses nutrients quickly.  Produce purchased locally was probably picked within the past day or two and provides crispy, sweet and flavorful food. Eating healthy, locally grown food not only strengthens your family but your community as well.

4. Buying from the local farmer helps to protect genetic diversity. There is little genetic diversity in the produce grown to meet commercial standards. Only varieties that can survive shipping, transporting and have a long shelf life are chosen. Therefore, only a few hybrid varieties of fruits and vegetables meet those demands. On the other hand, local farmers that sell to local grocery stores and restaurants can produce a wide variety of produce, some of which are heirlooms passed down from generation to generation because they taste good.
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