Southern California Farmers Daughters

I'm sure that many of you support your Local Farmers Markets. Rather than Rely on the Growers Certificate hanging in the booth, ask questions.Here are some suggestions for Produce:

When was this picked?

How was it grown? (Certified Organic, Organic Exempt, Natural, Conventional etc.)

What varieties do you grow? (each vegetable has several varieties, some of which only grow in specific climates) Heirloom varieties may cost more because of the cost of seeds.

Where was it grown?

How long have you been farming? (This One can be important Because it takes a Minimum of 3 years verifiably free of pesticide and or petroleum based fertilizer use to have land Certified as Organic.)

Do you have a Farm Stand Or CSA?

Can we make an appointment to come see your operation? (Most farms have Visiting Days once or twice a Year.)

How would you recommend cooking it?

If you don't like any of the answers you get, go on to the next booth.

You get the idea, Next time "What to ask the Bread and Meat Purveyors"

Aisling

Thank you for your interest. We will be introducing you to our collective members, their practices and production styles. We will also be keeping you informed about grass based livestock and holistic farming techniques. You will be able to learn about our Certification Program and what is required to use the "Truly Local"(tm) claim.

We strive to provide the finest foods at fair prices with our primary focus being a Locally Integrated Food Economy, keeping food producers and consumers connected in new and innovative ways. Some Free Informational Brochures are available now via e-mail and a storefront is being set up here on Local harvest for direct sales of products and workshop sign ups. Our "What Questions to ask at the Farmers Market" brochure is very popular and Free for the asking. Please visit our listing and check back often for answers to questions you never thought to ask.

Aisling