Hi Allan,
Part of what I'm doing with the Estancia Valley market is expanding those
very items. We have been invited to the Santa Fe Family Farmers co-op, which
wholesales members produce at a very comfortable price. We are also setting up a
co-op for going after DOD contracts as there is an intiative to displace the big
corporate entities and allow the producers to provide fresh produce to their own
local schools.
Part of what I've planned will include all aspects of farm and value added
products for our markets. From seed saving to seed sales (local and internet);
baking of all types; jams and jellies; off season fruits,veggies and greens; GH
forage for dairies and feed lots;and much more. My goal is to keep this valley
rural and turn around the local economy from one falling into the great black
abysss to one highlighted in the state as being a rural success model within the
sustainable movement.
Can I do this? You bet your bippy! Years worth of contacts in the Farmer's
Markets, knowledge of groups such as Food to Table that are leading the movement
for farmers to get those big contracts from DOD, membership on a panel promoting
rural ag business and a strong ability to network. What I do is only limited by
my own ability to create an awesome group of opportunities and then follow them
up and get them done!
So is it possible for "Local and Fresh"? My answer is a resounding YES!!!
Pat
