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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