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USDA Initiative Program: Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food

 

In this time of economic uncertainty, “Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the USDA’s initiative called,  “ Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food”,  in order  to begin a national conversation to help develop local and regional food systems and spur economic opportunity.” This is a wonderful time in Florida to be seriously thinking about becoming an official small farm and producer of food. The USDA is heading up programs thru Extension Offices throughout the state of Florida to help small farmers understand the rules and regulations of food production and these programs are free.

 

"An American people that is more engaged with their food supply will create new income opportunities for American agriculture," said Vilsack. "Reconnecting consumers and institutions with local producers will stimulate economies in rural communities, improve access to healthy, nutritious food for our families, and decrease the amount of resources to transport our food."   In Florida, we have optimal growing conditions. More people are needed to help plant, tend, harvest, sell the food to come. This is a wide open market in our sunny state and we can all pitch in by helping in whatever way we can to see that our food is grown locally or even in our own backyards, by purchasing locally grown products, and also by learning everything you can about growing some of your own vegetables.

In a recent article published by the USDA it was stated that “To launch the initiative, Secretary Vilsack recorded a video to invite Americans to join the discussion and share their ideas for ways to support local agriculture. The video, one of many means by which USDA will engage in this conversation, can be viewed at USDA's YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/usda. Producers and consumers can comment on the 'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' YouTube playlist, as well as submit videos or provide comments on this initiative by e-mailing KnowYourFarmer@usda.gov. “

Florida is taking off on the launchpad of helping small farmers become successful. There are many avenues of business in agriculture to support this adventure. Whether you are a producer of farm raised tilapia, a grower of vegetables, a farm stand owner, a goat herder, a chicken farmer, a beekeeper, a school wanting fresh food for the students, or a worm composting business, there is huge opportunity just around the corner for both buyers and sellers. So get growing!   Think ahead.   What do you want to bring to the table? 

 

For more info: www.youtube.com/usda , www.Brevard.ifas.ufl.edu.