Keeping It in the Family

This is 8-year-old Jennifer taking a seat on Grandpa's tractor. She represents the next generation, and I can't help but wonder about the future of small family farms. It's common knowledge that the number of small family-owned farms has been shrinking over the past few decades. Is there a way to reverse this trend?

I made a decision years ago to support local businesses. Our family doctor, dentist, eye doctor, grocery store, pharmacy, and school are all in our community, many within walking distance of our home. By supporting local businesses I contribute to their profitability; their profitability leads to success; their success leads to staying power; and staying power provides jobs. As a result the economy of our community thrives, which keeps much-needed goods and services conveniently located to our home.

The same holds true for our local farmers. When the farms are profitable, they remain productive and provide jobs. As a result our marketplaces are filled with fresh bounties of yummy-licious fruits and vegetables. And we all know that home-grown beats the rest. Why not support a local farmer at the NC Farmer's Market this weekend...and the next time you're at your local grocer, ask if they'll support our local farmers, too. Many small-time farmers provide wholesale services as well.