6 Ways to Support Agriculture in the Central Valley

Living the Central Valley, it is important to do our part to champion local agriculture and farms. After all, our job depends on ag! Here are some easy ways that you can support local agriculture in our Valley:

Attend a local farmer’s market.

Buying directly from local small farmers is one of the best ways to support local agriculture and farmer’s markets make it so easy! From fruits and vegetables to honey and other locally sourced products, some of the best and freshest produce comes from farmer’s markets. The best thing about living the Valley is that there is a farmer’s market in virtually every town!

Stop by a produce stand.

If you’ve lived in the Valley for any amount of time, then you know that you don’t have to look far to find a produce stand. Whether it be strawberries, peaches, tomatoes, corn or more, there are produce stands everywhere in the Valley, especially in the summer! Stop by a produce stand and enjoy some fresh produce straight from our backyard.

Eat seasonally.

When you eat produce that is out of season, that product has to be brought in from other states or even countries. When you eat fruits and vegetables that are in season, you are reducing the chances of that season’s crop going to waste. Eating seasonally is cheaper, the produce is fresher, and you are supporting local agriculture!

Buy meat and dairy directly from a local farm.

In the Central Valley, there are many great ways to purchase fruits, vegetables, meat, milk, eggs and more directly from a local farm, ranch or dairy. Some even provide delivery services, making it even easier to support local agriculture!

Support local restaurants and stores that use locally sourced ingredients.

Farm-to-table restaurants are very popular these days! Many source their produce, meat and dairy from local farmers, so find those restaurants and treat yourself a farm-to-table dinner. Also, shop at grocery stores that stock produce from local farms. If your grocery store doesn’t sell local products, ask the management if they would consider keeping some in stock.

Follow local farms on social media.

In recent years, a lot of farmers and agriculture companies have been joining the world of social media. So, give them a follow! Social media is a great place for farmers to give a behind-the-scenes look at their work and provide a better understanding of what it takes to put food on your plate every day.