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The Buy Local Campaign is a community based initiative that evolved out of expressed interest to sustain local agriculture and build a stronger local food system in Tompkins and surrounding counties. Our goals are to foster the environmental, economic and social vitality of our community by increasing the connections between consumers and farmers. Through outreach, marketing, and special initiatives we seek to raise individual and institutional awareness about the benefits of buying fresh locally grown and made products and to make local food an integral part of daily life.
We
are currently working on increasing farm to restaurant
connections, establishing farm to institution connections
and providing access to fresh and nutritious food
to low-income families.
Taste and Freshness
Locally grown food is fresh and fresh food tastes the best! Most produce in the U.S. is harvested 4 to 7 days before it reaches supermarket shelves, that means the non local produce you buy can be days to weeks old. Local farmers grow food that is bred for taste and freshness and not for mechanized harvests, shipping, and a long shelf life.
Grow
our Local Economy
Buying locally produced food keeps money circulating
in our community. If everyone in Tompkins County
spent just 10% of their grocery dollars on local
foods we would generate 16 million dollars of economic
value for our region.
Protect Our Environment
Most food in the U.S. travels 1,500 miles before it reaches our tables. Buying Local reduces carbon dioxide emissions and burns less non-renewable fossil fuels. Small family farms typically use more ecologically friendly farm management practices that promote healthy soil and keep our water clean.
Know Where Your Food Comes From
When you Buy Local you have the unique opportunity to get to know who is growing your food and become connected to your food source. Purchasing from local farmers allows you to find out how your food is grown and establish relationships with farmers you trust. You’ll also meet some really nice folks! |
