What’s all the buzz about local food? Top of the list, most people agree that fresh, locally grown food tastes better than food shipped thousands of miles. Having nearby healthy and profitable farms helps preserve open space, provides wildlife with habitat, and helps nurture the genetic diversity of the foods we enjoy. In addition, many local farms are staunch supporters of the environment, spending time and money planting stream buffers, changing fertilizer habits to decrease run-off, encouraging the reintroduction of native species and the rebuilding of salmon streams.

An important effect of increasing local food production and consumption is how it strengthens and builds community. Communities large and small are growing new farmers markets and food hubs to meet the burgeoning demand for local food and help community members engage with each other as well their farmers, strengthening ties, building relationships, and fostering a “we’re all in this together” kinship that can weather any calamity.

For almost twenty years, area organic and sustainable farmers and farm supporters have been meeting to support each other and revitalize the local food system. Formalized as a non-profit, Sno-Valley Tilth is dedicated to supporting local, sustainable agriculture.