tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84177415411285271352024-03-13T21:08:59.377-07:00Cascade Harvest CoalitionMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-54194821862828732542009-09-11T14:44:00.000-07:002009-09-11T15:01:00.344-07:00Our Blog has Moved!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_AtBVOqE7mfA/SqrIlKeH_2I/AAAAAAAAAAs/WSfmmKUbIMU/s1600-h/redirect-to-new-blog-screen.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 303px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_AtBVOqE7mfA/SqrIlKeH_2I/AAAAAAAAAAs/WSfmmKUbIMU/s400/redirect-to-new-blog-screen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380333245638901602" border="0" /></a><br />Please check out our new blog and NEW FEATURES at <a href="http://www.cascadeharvest.org/">http://www.cascadeharvest.org</a>Alex Moorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189369230655271794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-29628812227433790402009-08-20T15:54:00.001-07:002009-08-20T17:12:46.958-07:00Jam It, Pickle It or Cure It - Can-volution is Here<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/So3hDkxRd9I/AAAAAAAAAFQ/_80zHvcJdRU/s1600-h/Foodista+Canning+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/So3hDkxRd9I/AAAAAAAAAFQ/_80zHvcJdRU/s320/Foodista+Canning+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372197382049069010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/So3g5ti6zvI/AAAAAAAAAFI/tPrvvqWnyhE/s1600-h/canning%2Bacross%2Bamerica%2Blogo1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/So3g5ti6zvI/AAAAAAAAAFI/tPrvvqWnyhE/s320/canning%2Bacross%2Bamerica%2Blogo1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372197212606090994" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Hard to miss all the buzz about Can-</span><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">volution</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> - classes and events are springing up and taking root like a prize crop of zucchinis across the country and of course, right here in Seattle.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Inspired by Yes, We Can, a community home canning project in the Bay Area, Seattle food writer Kim </span><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">O'Donnel</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> asked on Twitter: What if Seattle got in on the canning act? Better still, what if we led the charge and set a date for a city-wide can-a-</span><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">thon</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> and encourage other cities around the country to follow suit for simultaneous coast-to-coast canning '</span><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">stravaganzas</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">And so a Can-</span><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">volution</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> was born, with people organizing nationwide to preserve the season's bounty in a "Can-a-</span><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">rama</span><span style="font-family: verdana;">" kick-off event on August 29 and 30 with how to classes, demos and home canning parties from sea to shining sea - or in this case from Massachusetts to California and of course, the great state of Washington.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">There's a complete list of canning events for August, September and October at </span><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://www.canningacrossamerica.com">Canning Across America</a><span style="font-family: verdana;"> - the brains behind Canvolution; below is a quick list for August. The site is also a terrific resource and guide to the joys of self-preservation, at least when it comes to food, which is much easier than you think. If I can make my own pickles, so can you.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Wednesday, August 26, 4 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Canning Demonstration @ Columbia City Farmers Market with Amy Pennington</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Thursday, August 27, 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Queen Anne Farmers Market Canning Demonstration</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Saturday, August 29, 10 AM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Canning Demonstration @ University District Farmers Market with Chef Renee Erickson of Boat Street Cafe</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Preserving Peaches 3 Ways, 10 AM - 12:30 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Wiley Community Center, $30.00 (work/trades are available)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Canning in the Valley, 5 PM - 8:30 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Rainier Community Center, $25.00</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Sunday, August 30, 2 PM - 3:30 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Canning Basics with Marisa McClellan: Fruit Jam</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Starry Nights Catering & Events, $25.0</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Introduction</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;"> to Canning, 11 AM, 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Goods for the Planet, $10</span><br /><br /></span></span> <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></span>Sheryl Wiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15150493717565230788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-11468810793365187172009-08-18T14:11:00.000-07:002009-08-18T14:45:10.715-07:00FreshLocal Coming to Bremerton This October<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/Sosdc375L5I/AAAAAAAAAEQ/DFIlR7fnM0E/s1600-h/Apples.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/Sosdc375L5I/AAAAAAAAAEQ/DFIlR7fnM0E/s320/Apples.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371419362458152850" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Fresh local vegetables, plus eggs, cheese, milk, frozen meats and locally made value-added food products will soon be available in scenic Bremerton.<br /></span><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal" ><span style="font-size:100%;">A group of local farmers, including StartNow, Pheasant Fields and Harlow Gardens, are behind the new venture, with efforts underway to recruit more participants.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal" ><span style="font-size:100%;">All local farmers and producers of local food products who follow non-toxic, sustainable principles are invited to contact Jean Schanen, <a title="mailto:jscha@speakeasy.net" href="mailto:jscha@speakeasy.net">jscha@speakeasy.net</a> for more information.<br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal" ><span style="font-size:100%;">Although it's late to plant most winter crops, says Schanen, they'd like to hear from anyone who is interested, in order to start planning for the spring.<br /><br />Local food lovers are also welcome to get involved and stay current with progress updates, what's fresh in store and add input on what they would like to see on the shelves. Even though space is limited says Schanen, they're giving thought to adding organic bulk products like beans and grains and organic spices to round out their offerings. </span><span style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125);font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125); font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:'Calibri','sans-serif';font-size:100%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Good news for farmers and friends of locally grown fresh food - this makes for a big contribution to Bremerton and Kitsap County.</span><br /></p>Sheryl Wiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15150493717565230788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-65176674861051433812009-08-04T17:15:00.001-07:002009-08-04T17:20:32.312-07:00Sign up for fresh fruits and veggies delivered via wind and water<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SnjQLO6g73I/AAAAAAAAAEI/4kmWDenvgUA/s1600-h/072709_SailTransportCompany3_200.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SnjQLO6g73I/AAAAAAAAAEI/4kmWDenvgUA/s400/072709_SailTransportCompany3_200.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366267847412608882" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SnjPiergQVI/AAAAAAAAAEA/Ho-tF5EzfOk/s1600-h/072709_SailTransportCompany1_200.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 163px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SnjPiergQVI/AAAAAAAAAEA/Ho-tF5EzfOk/s400/072709_SailTransportCompany1_200.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366267147269980498" border="0" /></a>It's Saturday morning and Ballard resident Laura McLeod is at Kick It Boots & Stompwear on Northwest Market Street. But it's not the latest Italian boots she's after. McLeod has purchased several 3-pound jars of Buck Hollow Farms raw honey from Poulsbo that, literally, just came off the boat. <p> The boat, also known as Whisper and home to <a href="http://www.sailtransportcompany.com/">Sail Transport Company</a>, is moored down the road at Shilshole Bay Marina, while a lively group of shoppers gathers round to pick up pre-ordered tote bags brimming with organic produce. </p> <p> Grown by Kitsap County farmers, the fresh veggies and fruit and molasses-colored jars of honey have been sailed from shore to shore without using one drop of petroleum, courtesy of STC's sail- and bike-powered community-supported agriculture (CSA) program. </p> <p> Since the company's inception in 2008, the guiding premise for founder Dave Reid has been to harness the power of water and wind -- along with a little brain and brawn -- as a fuel source. But the mission isn't just fossil-fuel independence. </p> <p> "It's important that we build a petroleum-independent infrastructure with promise for the well-being of our future," Reid says. But, "It's also important to me that we build systems of local trade, employing local people." </p> <p> Deliveries take place every second Saturday, June through October. A peek into one of those brimming totes revealed strawberries; purple and red radishes; red, rainbow and golden chard; fava beans; mustard greens; dill; parsley; spring baby garlic; baby white turnips; and wheat berries. </p> <p> "The selection changes with the season," says Reid. "We try whenever possible to make the half and full totes the same selection. If we have to leave something out of the half totes, for example, we try to limit it to a variation rather than pure omission. The full may have three types of chard where the half has two." </p> <p> The goods can be picked up in Ballard from 10 a.m. to noon, or delivered within a 4-mile radius from the marina via specially outfitted transport tricycles. Service is limited only by geography and what Reid calls "natural topography." </p> <p> If you're outside the delivery area, but use a petroleum-free means to pick up your order, you'll qualify for a discount. A half tote, sized for a single person for one week, is $25; a full tote, sized to last a family of two to three for one week, is $40. The honey will cost you $18, but according to McLeod, it's money well-spent. </p> <p> "This is probably the best honey I've ever tasted," she says. "It's dark, rich and complex, not just one flavor like blackberry or wildflower. I eat it by the spoonful; it's kind of like dark chocolate."<br /></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;">Reprinted with permission. Article originally appeared NWsource on July 27, 2009. Author: Sheryl Wiser<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:85%;">Copyright © The Seattle Times Company</span></p><p><br /></p>Sheryl Wiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15150493717565230788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-88525390262846460112009-07-23T14:43:00.000-07:002009-07-23T15:32:57.616-07:00Clean Greens Market Debuts this Saturday!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmjfXpu-hrI/AAAAAAAAACo/xJkCQahy8hM/s1600-h/427883R104320_020.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 186px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmjfXpu-hrI/AAAAAAAAACo/xJkCQahy8hM/s320/427883R104320_020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361780953817450162" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="font-family:arial;">Our <span style="font-weight: bold;">taste tip </span>of the week goes to the grand opening of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Clean Greens Market </span>at New Hope Baptist Church on Saturday, July 25 from 10 AM to 3 PM.<br /><br />You'll find lovely, luscious and affordable bunches of pesticide-free mustard greens, collards, green & yellow summer squash, turnips and spinach. Clean Greens Market is located at 116 21st Avenue in Seattle, just north of Yesler.<br /><br />Their motto? Good food, great prices and healthy community. So take yourself and your favorite shopping tote out to market this Saturday.<br /><br />Based on 22 acres of leased land in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Duvall</span>, WA, Clean Greens was begun by the Black Dollar Days Task Force, an organization dedicated to creating economic opportunity and equity in Seattle's low income communities.<br /></div> <div style="font-family: arial;"> </div>Sheryl Wiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15150493717565230788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-34470059121425925852009-07-17T13:20:00.000-07:002009-07-17T13:56:43.075-07:00Save the Date - Calendar Picks for July<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmDkRk2et_I/AAAAAAAAAB4/vukmlt_vzn8/s1600-h/Sequim+Lavender+Festival+Angel+Farm+girl+smelling+in+field.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmDkRk2et_I/AAAAAAAAAB4/vukmlt_vzn8/s200/Sequim+Lavender+Festival+Angel+Farm+girl+smelling+in+field.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359534547171981298" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmDjmM0nDaI/AAAAAAAAABw/_gL3xqGlQHQ/s1600-h/Sequim+Lavender+Festival+Angel+Farm+girl+smelling+in+field.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmDjmM0nDaI/AAAAAAAAABw/_gL3xqGlQHQ/s200/Sequim+Lavender+Festival+Angel+Farm+girl+smelling+in+field.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359533801987313058" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Ready to hit the road in search of adventures in local agriculture?<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Here's a handy little guide to what's happening around the Sound this month.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">King County Fair</span><br />July 16-18<br />www.metrokc.gov/parks/fair<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">13th Annual Sequim Lavendar Festival</span><br />July 17, 18 & 19<br /> www.lavendarfestival.com<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Mason County Fair</span><br />July 24-26<br />www.co.mason.wa.us/fairgrounds<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Poulsbo Farmers Market Children's Day</span><br />July 25<br />www.poulsbofarmersmarket.org<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Enumclaw Fair/Farmers Market</span><br />July 25-26<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thurston County Fair</span><br />July 29-August 2<br />www.co.thurston.wa.us/fair<br /></div>Sheryl Wiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15150493717565230788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-88762048745909146202009-07-17T12:35:00.000-07:002009-07-17T13:20:24.378-07:00U District Farmers Market Makes Huffington Post Top 10 List!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmDZntUcfZI/AAAAAAAAAAw/3tnZQPHm6Mo/s1600-h/slide_1994_26291_large.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 233px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Gvh54jJYwpI/SmDZntUcfZI/AAAAAAAAAAw/3tnZQPHm6Mo/s320/slide_1994_26291_large.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359522832774364562" border="0" /></a><br />Way to go U District Farmers Market!<br /><br />The Huffington Post has included Seattle's oldest and largest "farmers-only" neighborhood market as one of the top ten farmers markets in the US.<br /><br />According to "HuffPost Green," the University District FM, along with their celebrated cohorts are cited for their dedication to fresh produce, locavore ideologies and innovative settings."<br /><br />Of course, all those superlatives apply, but we're also fans (obviously) of all our farmers market partners here in Puget Sound.<br /><br />In case you're missing details - the Saturday market, located at the corner of University Way and NE 50th, in the heart of Seattle's University District is open year-round from 9 AM - 2 PM. On-street parking can be found, and the market provides tokens to shoppers for one free hour of parking in nearby pay lots.<br /><br />Living nearby, our Saturday morning ritual includes walking over with shopping bags in tow. First stop - a calorie-busting round of buttery pastries, then down to the business of tasting, visiting and stocking up.<br /><br />Looking for markets in your neck of the woods? Be sure and visit Puget Sound Fresh and check out the PSF Farm Guide.Sheryl Wiserhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15150493717565230788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-23433090252095082822009-06-19T15:46:00.001-07:002009-06-19T17:07:29.646-07:00Food Lust Recap<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/Sjwn8s5ApUI/AAAAAAAAA58/8OYvmprkTWk/s1600-h/IMG_5929.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/Sjwn8s5ApUI/AAAAAAAAA58/8OYvmprkTWk/s400/IMG_5929.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349194381205218626" border="0" /></a><br />The party may be over, but memories live forever, not to mention photos.<br /><br />What happens at Food Lust stays at Food Lust, right?<br /><br />Food Lust 2009 was a whirlwind affair and although the weather wasn’t’ quite as bright and shiny as we would have liked, nothing dampened the spirits of over 125 attendees who wined, dined, brawled (for bottles) and dashed for dessert and bid like pros for favorite auction items.<br /><br />As far as the live auction, the evening’s biggest nail biter had to be the Farmer Chef Bacchanalia, with each new bid bringing an inspired round of table drumming, hearty cheers and sharp-eyed bidding. Some lucky Food Luster is now the recipient of a blowout feast for 12, featuring the talented Chef Tamara Murphy, Brasa, Chef Seth Caswell, emmer & rye and Autumn Martin, Theo Chocolates, along with VineOne Wines amidst the pastoral setting of Ninety Farms in Arlington.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SjwoJiS6D3I/AAAAAAAAA6E/dH1aaVra8wI/s1600-h/happy+plate+girl.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SjwoJiS6D3I/AAAAAAAAA6E/dH1aaVra8wI/s400/happy+plate+girl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349194601699348338" border="0" /></a><br />Once again, we tip our hats, forks, knives and plates and everything else to all of our generous sponsors, donors and patrons, plus an incredible crew of hardworking volunteers, staff and our ultimate dynamic planning duo - our Board Chair Alison Leber and Board Member Seth Caswell.<br /><br />Save the date for Food Lust 2010!Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-84830407455916978092009-06-01T15:23:00.000-07:002009-06-01T15:34:38.834-07:00Tempting Food LustPaddles Up!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AtBVOqE7mfA/SiRVp2ePrRI/AAAAAAAAAAc/nFNco_0SSwk/s1600-h/LowResCrdnlSunrmcrop.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342489235453619474" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 153px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AtBVOqE7mfA/SiRVp2ePrRI/AAAAAAAAAAc/nFNco_0SSwk/s200/LowResCrdnlSunrmcrop.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />How can we tempt you? Let us count the ways at this year’s Food Lust on Saturday, June with a mind-boggling booty of temptations that comprise this year’s auction. We’ve been hard at work, combing the land (or at least Puget Sound) and procured a smorgasbord of enticing items that will make your pens soar at the silent auction and paddles sing when we go live.<br /><br />We love 'em all, and we think you will too. <br /><br />Speaking of love, Clayton Burrows of Growing Washington <a href="http://www.growingwashington.org/">http://www.growingwashington.org/</a> showed us some with a spectacular Gobble, Gobble Thanksgiving CSA Share.<br /><div></div><div><br />The winner of this item is going to be the envy of the entire neighborhood. First, you take ownership of your own turkey, raised by Growing Washington’s farmers at Alm Hill Gardens. Your turkey is fed only the finest organic feed and, along with its chicken and pig friends, roams around 2 acres of rotating forage.<br /><br />Your turkey will have only one bad day, and that is the day before Thanksgiving. On this fateful and glorious day, your turkey becomes the centerpiece of a fabulous locally produced Thanksgiving. If you are a lover of stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetable trays, pumpkin pie, cranberries, roasted vegetables, apple pie, berry desserts, winter squash, salads, and other traditional Thanksgiving fare, you’ll love eating an all-local Thanksgiving.<br /><br />And, to show off your fabulous feast, you might need an equally impressive dining room. That’s where our new BFOF (Best Friend of Farmers), green interior designer Piper Lauri Salogga of Natural Balance Home and Office, <a href="http://www.naturalbalance9.com/">http://www.naturalbalance9.com/</a> comes in with an amazing one-room makeover. </div><div><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AtBVOqE7mfA/SiRW2ZNduMI/AAAAAAAAAAk/ENwdVVWBGVI/s1600-h/DFOfficeCroplowres.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342490550448535746" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AtBVOqE7mfA/SiRW2ZNduMI/AAAAAAAAAAk/ENwdVVWBGVI/s400/DFOfficeCroplowres.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Here’s your chance to create the beautiful sustainable room of your dreams. Piper’s gathered up some of her favorite colleagues and created a full meal deal worth bidding on. You’ll get design consultation with Piper, professional organization consulting from Simplify, <a href="http://www.simplifyorganization.com/">http://www.simplifyorganization.com/</a>, and primo color consultation, courtesy of Nest, <a href="http://www.nestseattle.com/">http://www.nestseattle.com/</a>.<br /><br />Once you choose that perfect color, along comes a full paint job from Hanoch Painting and of course the paint (non-toxic, of course) and four lovely accent pillows courtesy of Six Walls Interior Design, <a href="http://www.six-walls.com/">http://www.six-walls.com/</a>. Of course, no room is complete without great lighting – you’ll get to choose a custom lampshade from Capitol Hill’s LiT, <a href="http://www.litshades.com/">http://www.litshades.com/</a><br /><br />However, without a ticket <a href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/63334" target="_blank">www.brownpapertickets.com/event/63334</a> you'll miss all the fun, not to mention your chance to bid on over 90 auction items. </div>Alex Moorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01189369230655271794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-30583610675831194902009-05-08T16:59:00.000-07:002009-05-08T17:00:29.780-07:00Growing for a local market on grander scaleMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-57106239270992611492009-05-07T16:13:00.000-07:002009-05-07T16:15:22.516-07:00Great CSA video from Kitsap Community Ag. Alliance<embed id="VideoPlayback" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docid=-290437501968092208&hl=en&fs=true" style="width:400px;height:326px" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"> </embed>Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-46888072185469193042009-05-06T16:58:00.000-07:002009-05-06T16:59:35.033-07:00Public Comment Sessions on FARMS Study FindingsDear Friends,<br /><br />Thanks to all of you who participated in King County’s FARMS study by completing the consumer opinion survey and/or participating in one of the town hall meetings. You’re input on the future of farming in King County and the region was extremely valuable. A big shout out to the 450 of you who completed the telephone survey!<br /><br />Preliminary results indicate that 89% of you purchased local food at a neighborhood farmers market in the last year and 74% said that is was very important for you to be able to purchase fruits and vegetables grown in King County. Importantly, 85% of you agreed with the statement that “King County should continue to provide services to farmers, such as assistance with permits, drainage improvements, promotion of local farm products, and grants to improve environmental practices.”<br /><br />Now you have the opportunity to help translate those desires into actions.<br /><br />The King Conservation District is holding a series of public comment sessions and taking written input on priorities and programs funded by the District’s special assessment. The total assessment is shared between the KCD for operations, originating jurisdictions (cities and unincorporated King County) and watershed stewardship activities. The announcement below provides more detail and the specific dates/times/locations for the public meetings.<br /><br />We strongly encourage you to participate in person or in writing to support funding allocations for critical farm and food system needs in King County and all its cities. This must be a collaborative effort. Priorities include programs that address farm viability and marketing, farm transition – getting and keeping the next generation of farmers on the land, and increasing farm productivity.<br /><br />Regards,<br /><br />Mary<br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style=""><u><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</span></u><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">: April 29, 2009<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">King Conservation District sets dates and locations for district-wide public comment sessions</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">District seeks input in advance of 2010 special assessment<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">RENTON—</span><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The King Conservation District (King CD) will hold a series of six public comment sessions in May and June to provide input on conservation priorities and programs that would be funded by the reauthorization of the district special assessment.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The King CD (<a href="http://www.kingcd.org/">www.kingcd.org</a>) provides conservation information and technical assistance programs to all landowners within the district’s boundaries (most of King County) on a voluntary, non-regulatory basis. It provides grants for conservation projects and programs, and initiates community outreach activities including workshops, education programs, site visits, farm plans, and consultation on land, water and wildlife management. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-left: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The King CD is funded by a $10 per parcel/per year assessment within the district’s boundaries and expires on December 31<sup>st</sup>, 2009. It provides approximately $6 million annually to the District. This funding has been allocated to support good stewardship practices by private landowners through King CD education workshops and site-specific consulting, and for natural resource conservation projects in partnership with King County and its cities. For the past decade, King CD has supported salmon recovery work within the District. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 5pt; margin-left: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> “We are inviting landowners, residents, member jurisdictions, and organizations that operate within the boundary of the district to share their ideas about their natural resource conservation needs and work accomplishments of the District” said King CD Executive Director Jeffrey Possinger. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Individuals interested in providing comments can attend any number of the public comment sessions or may submit comments in writing by June 5, 2009 by email to <a href="mailto:district@kingcd.org"><span style="color: rgb(126, 91, 44);">comments@kingcd.org</span></a> or standard mail at: <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">King CD Board of Supervisors<br />Attn.: Public Comment<br />1107 SW Grady Way, Suite 130<br />Renton, WA 98057<b><br /></b><br />For more information on the King CD and the public comment process visit <a href="http://www.kingcd.org/">www.kingcd.org</a> or call 425-282-1987.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As one of 47 conservation districts in the state, the King CD is a natural resources assistance agency authorized by the State of Washington and guided by the Washington State Conservation Commission. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">King Conservation District Public Comment Locations and Dates:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">SHORELINE:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Thursday, May 14, 6:00 – 8:00 PM<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Shoreline/ King County Library, 345 NE 175th, Shoreline WA 98155<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">MERCER ISLAND:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Tuesday, May 19, 4:00 – 6:00 PM <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Mercer Island/King County Library, 4400 88th Ave. S.E., Mercer Island, WA 98040<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">KENT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Thursday, May 21, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Kent/King County Library, 212 2nd Avenue N., Kent, WA 98032<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">SEATTLE:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Wednesday, May 27, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Seattle Public Library (High Point branch), 3411 SW Raymond St., Seattle WA 98126<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">CARNATION:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Thursday, May 28, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Carnation/King County Library, 4804 Tolt Avenue, Carnation WA 98014<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">ISSAQUAH:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> Tuesday, June 2, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Issaquah/King County Library, 10 W. Sunset Way, Issaquah WA 98027<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> # # #<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><u><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">MEDIA CONTACTS:<o:p></o:p></span></u></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Jeffrey Possinger, Executive Director <i>or </i><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Jason Chambers, Public Information Officer<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">King Conservation District<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">425-282-1987<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Barry Bartlett, The Bartlett Group <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">206-335-4694 </span><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-70344258008222532462009-05-06T15:09:00.000-07:002009-05-06T15:10:31.722-07:00Save Money by Shopping @ Farmers Markets?! King 5 says so<a href="http://www.king5.com/video/index.html?nvid=352045">Jump to video.</a><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-79800929857895652812009-05-05T09:52:00.000-07:002009-05-05T10:05:18.083-07:00Maria Hines wins James Beard award for Best Chef NorthwestMaria Hines, of <a href="http://www.tilthrestaurant.com/">Tilth Restaurant</a>, took home the award for <a href="http://www.jbfawards.com/winners.html#restaurant">Best Chef in the Northwest </a>beating out fellow NW culinary marvels Jason Wilson (Crush), Joseba Jimenez de Jimenez (The Harvest Vine), Ethan Stowell (Union), and Cathy Whims (Nostrana). Congrats to Chef Hines! Chef Hines has been a huge proponent of using local ingredients, including her "producer spotlight" dinners, which highlight a specific local producer throughout a multi-course meal. We wish her the best and will continue to follow her phenomonal culinary accomplishments.<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-12556464404949260262009-04-22T10:32:00.000-07:002009-04-23T10:02:31.724-07:00Community Supported Agriculture...reinvented?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/Se9wdv4lnmI/AAAAAAAAA2c/Yv3Az5CaR5g/s1600-h/AsparagusTurnipsGrowingWashington.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 265px; height: 183px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/Se9wdv4lnmI/AAAAAAAAA2c/Yv3Az5CaR5g/s400/AsparagusTurnipsGrowingWashington.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327600540574916194" border="0" /></a><br />Every Wednesday, across the nation, most newspapers print their food section, providing plenty of great reading. I was trawling through the web this morning, looking for interesting articles about local food, when I came across this headline: <span style="font-style: italic;">Ashland farmer reinvents model for community supported agriculture</span>. Hmmmm. Very intriguing, especially for a guy like me who <span style="font-style: italic;">loves </span>CSAs, as a business model, as an eating philosophy and as a semi-cryptic initialism. Each CSA program is unique. There have been a few creative twists tried out over the years, some more effective than others.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.crown-s-ranch.com/">Crown S Ranch</a> in the Methow Valley runs a meat and poultry CSA, radically different than the traditional vegetable and fruit shares (a phenomenal way to secure a locally grown Thanksgiving turkey!)<br /><br /><a href="http://fullcirclefarm.com/">Full Circle Farm</a>, near Carnation, WA, has taken the CSA model and tweaked it to fit a more modern lifestyle, with web-based accounts, multiple share sizes, year-round service, and some exotic foods.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.helsingfarmcsa.com/">Helsing Junction Farm</a>, outside of Rochester, WA, offers a Foodbank Farm Donation, where "every season we accept donations from our members and we then match those funds, allowing us to deliver CSA boxes directly to families who rely on the food bank for some of their dietary needs." (From their website)<br /><br />There are CSAs delivered by bicycle (for those who are "hyperlocal"), cut-flower CSAs, winter-only CSAs, harvest-your-own CSAs (the lovechild of CSAs and U-picks), and many other iterations<br /><br />What did this farmer to to "reinvent" the CSA model? He offered smaller share sizes. Not, in my mind, a "reinvention" of the CSA model, but the farmer's CSA model tweak represents a shift in the reach of and target audience for CSA programs. In the past, CSAs were primarily targeted for the "core" of the local food scene, but in the last five years or so, they have really taken off, spreading outward and adapting to the desires of the so-called "second tier" consumers. It's an interesting trend that both supports the sustainability of local farms and meets increasing market demand.<br /><br />RIGHT NOW is the best time to sign up for a CSA. Check out the <a href="http://pugetsoundfresh.org/pdf/PSF-CSA-Directory.pdf">2009 Puget Sound Fresh CSA Directory</a> to find a program near you.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-91229208611869972812009-04-20T12:55:00.000-07:002009-04-21T11:25:19.359-07:00Kudos for Puget Sound Fresh Farm Guide!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SezUILr7CuI/AAAAAAAAA2U/RRip8SGHv-Y/s1600-h/Cover.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 279px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SezUILr7CuI/AAAAAAAAA2U/RRip8SGHv-Y/s400/Cover.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326865696313510626" border="0" /></a><br />Fresh off the press, our 2009 Puget Sound Fresh Farm guide got a thumbs up from Mark Lovejoy, owner of Garden Treasures nursery and organic farm in Arlington. While we always appreciate getting good feedback on what we do, it makes us do a little jig when our local farmers feel supported.<br /><br />FYI, a PDF version of the Farm Guide is available on our companion website www.pugetsoundfresh.org Here's what Mark emailed last week:<br /><br />"Just took a PDF look at the 2009 Puget Sound Fresh Farm Guide. Looks amazing, great logos, beautiful artwork, and very easy to read and understand with the symbols and the maps.<br /><br />The guide definitely is the only local print resource many small farms and roadside farms have to get the word out affordably [sic], and to customers who like to do the farm tour thing and eating local.<br /><br />Great job and well done!"<br /><br />Thanks Mark. You make us blush!<br /><br />If you're interested in distributing the guide, contact Mark McIntyre at mark@cascadeharvest.orgMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-1477435657491632142009-04-16T09:58:00.000-07:002009-04-20T15:44:53.711-07:00Post-taxes rant: ummmm, where's the moneytrain?Hey gang,<br /><br />Today, I bring you a little rant, so strap in, hold on, and steel yourself for a tale of greed and corruption! Well, not quite, but still....<br /><br />Some brief background:<br /><br />Cascade Harvest Coalition wants to build a better food system in Washington state. Boom. Pretty easy goal to understand, right? But it's also a really broad goal, a large umbrella, if you will. Underneath that umbrella, we house a variety of programs, each designed to tackle a food and farming issue <span style="font-style: italic;">not addressed by government, private enterprise, or other non-profit organization.</span> Why the italics? Because they highlight the fact that our programs are unique to our beautiful state and wonderful communities.<br /><br />Now the rant. We don't work for free. Our contractors don't work for free. And, while our volunteers work for free, they require management and organization, which isn't free. Our research isn't free. Our time isn't free. Yes, this rant is fueled by my tax-hangover, but it's also fueled by the fact that in the first quarter of 2009 we have fielded more general phone calls and provided more free advice and assistance than any time in the past. People have been dropping into our office like rain in Seattle: it feels like all the time, and just when you think it's over, it starts again. We love that people call us with questions. We love that we can provide a unique service to our community and region. But again, that service ain't free. And yet, event though we provide a unique service, one that is increasing in popularity, it looks like we're gonna be losing more funding. Wha?!?! Yep. As our time becomes scarcer and our services more valuable, we get less funding.<br /><br />While we are writing more grants and seeking other forms of funding, there's another strange occurrence tied to the uptick in interest in local food: more organizations jumping on the bandwagon, trying to capture a piece of the pie. Again, in general, it's wonderful to see people taking a greater interest in food and farming. But specifically, it means that we are all thrown into a mild-mannered version of the Thunderdome where we compete for the same grants and funding sources. While local ag. is a hot topic, there's still not a ton of funding available. For instance, everyone loves the classic farmer-chef fundraising event...unless you get invited to 15 of them within a three month period! That doesn't pencil out for anyone involved. Too many mouths to feed. Plus, many of the other organizations jump into the fray to try and generate more demand for local food...which is great, but we really need to address the other side of the equation and help generate a greater and better <span style="font-style: italic;">supply of local food</span>. Consumer education and consumer demand are vitally important, but unless we preserve farmland and help new farmers get on that land, all the demand in the world won't matter.<br /><br />So...what's the point of all of these words? Simple: I ask you to think about the person on the other end of the line when you are requesting a service. Not just for our organization, but for all of those other organizations out there who provide important services, valuable services, <span style="font-style: italic;">unique services</span> that may be in jeopardy of losing large amounts of funding in the coming year. If you value those services, help out by <span style="font-style: italic;">becoming a member or making a small donation</span>.<br /><br />Okay, here's to hoping that I don't regret this post later today.<br /><br />MarkMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-39685281012657388132009-04-15T10:25:00.000-07:002009-04-15T14:13:19.681-07:00Oh happy day! Food Lust tickets now on sale!Are you ready to party on the farm? Tickets are now on sale for Food Lust 2009 at <a href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/63334">brownpapertickets.com</a><br /><br />Join us for a “down on the farm” celebration of our region’s remarkable bounty with a mouth-watering, multi-course meal prepared by Seattle’s best chefs and local farmers at Fall City Farms, on Saturday, June 6.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SeYalWiijMI/AAAAAAAAA18/C8doadts1QU/s1600-h/OysterSlurp.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SeYalWiijMI/AAAAAAAAA18/C8doadts1QU/s400/OysterSlurp.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324972838420122818" border="0" /></a><br />The feast (and the fun) begins at 5 PM with drinks, appetizers, and silent auction, followed by dinner, Bottle Brawl, live auction, and Dessert Dash. This year, we’ve added a dash of soulful Cuban music, with SuperSones.<br /><br />Participating chefs and farmers to date include Brasa, Circa, Fall City Farms, Fall City Roadhouse, Herban Feast, Matt’s in the Market, TASTE at SAM, Stumbling Goat, and Taylor Shellfish with more to come. Participating wineries include Lopez Island Winery, Hoodsport Winery, and Perennial Vintners.<br /><br />Tickets are $85 per person; all proceeds will benefit Cascade Harvest Coalition.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-43733673618410827272009-04-13T12:13:00.000-07:002009-04-13T12:33:18.051-07:00Follow us on Facebook!Become a fan of Cascade Harvest Coalition on Facebook. We are trying to utilize new social networking technology to help us connect farmers and consumers.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cascade-Harvest-Coalition/73082575859?ref=ts">Join us on Facebook!</a><br /><br /><br />Links:<br /><br />--<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/health/policy/10food.html?ref=dining">US Food Safety Outdated, Needs Updates, More Inspections</a><br /><br />--<a href="http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/school-lunch-crunch/Content?oid=1307413">Portlanders Want Local Food In Local Schools</a><br /><br />--<a href="http://www.king5.com/localnews/stories/NW_041309WAB-seattle-garden-share-LJ.ced72bba.html">Urbangardenshare.org Helps Match Wannabe Gardeners With Backyard Space</a>Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-28315456781097835392009-04-09T16:21:00.000-07:002009-04-09T16:22:32.785-07:00Helpful guide to meat labelsCheck out this <a href="http://www.sustainabletable.org/getinvolved/materials/GlossaryofMeatProductionMethods.pdf">helpful, printable, foldable guide</a>. Of course, if you buy locally raised meat, you can just ask the farmer...<br /><br />MarkMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-81213217937233011022009-04-03T16:33:00.000-07:002009-04-03T16:41:05.262-07:00Food Lust 2009 Tickets on Sale April 15 -- Celebrate Local Food with Cascade Harvest Coalition!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SdaeSvU6GjI/AAAAAAAAA1U/JN0CvSEbelw/s1600-h/Logo2009_ForWeb.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 163px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SdaeSvU6GjI/AAAAAAAAA1U/JN0CvSEbelw/s400/Logo2009_ForWeb.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320614054563813938" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Food Lust wants you!<br /><br />While the IRS is clamoring for your taxes, you deserve a fresh on-the-farm, gourmet al fresco gala. Yep.<br /><br />Starting Wednesday, April 15, tickets for Food Lust 2009 will be available online at www.brownpapertickets.com.<br /><br /><br />Tickets are $85 per person and include a mouth-watering, multi-course meal prepared by Seattle’s best chefs and local farmers in celebration of this region’s remarkable bounty, as well as the accomplishments of Cascade Harvest Coalition and its supporting members.<br /><br />The fun begins at 5 PM with drinks, appetizers, and silent auction, followed by dinner, Bottle Brawl, live auction, and Dessert Dash. We’ve also decided to add a dash of Cuban soul, with live music by SuperSones.<br /><br />Teaser alert: Participating chefs and farmers to date include Brasa, Circa, Herban Feast, Matt’s in the Market, TASTE at SAM, Stumbling Goat and Taylor Shellfish with more to come.<br /><br />Stay tuned for more updates – we’re lining up amazing auction items and of course, desserts that will make you swoon with pleasure.Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-30854964297112127522009-04-02T16:19:00.000-07:002009-04-02T16:51:36.032-07:002009 Farm Guides are here!Yee-haw! The 2009 Puget Sound Fresh Farm Guides have arrived. This year, we have a completely re-designed guide thanks to Lida Enche-Keene, our go-to graphic design artist and illustrator. Here's a taste of what's inside:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SdVJ9dEObgI/AAAAAAAAA00/YyxNnVFzPuE/s1600-h/Farm-Guide-Printed-8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 314px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_risCZJNZV5I/SdVJ9dEObgI/AAAAAAAAA00/YyxNnVFzPuE/s400/Farm-Guide-Printed-8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320239854931308034" border="0" /></a>Huge thanks to everyone who helped make this wonderful publication possible! If you are interested in getting your hands on some guides, please let me know: mark@cascadeharvest.org.<br /><br />MarkMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-14976968426662719482009-04-01T12:36:00.000-07:002009-04-01T12:40:16.028-07:002009 Local Farm Walk Schedule Announced!Tilth Producers of Washington and WSU Small Farms Team present:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2009 Farm Walk Schedule</span></span><br /></div> <br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday April 13 - Terry's Berries, Tacoma www.terrysberries.com </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Recordkeeping in a Diversified Vegetable & Fruit Operation, 12:30pm-4pm </span><br /><br />Terry's Berries is a 20-acre diversified organic vegetable and fruit farm that markets produce through an extensive CSA, on-farm store and farmers markets. Terry will share the specific recordkeeping tools she uses to plan, stay organized and track information during her extended production and marketing season. She will share her forms, systems and ideology, including CSA planning and tracking, organic certification records, greenhouse planning and planting, capturing harvest information, and ways to use records for planning future farm improvements. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday April 27 - Lopez Island Farm, Lopez Island www.lopezislandfarm.com </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Pastured Pigs and Soil Fertility, 10am-1pm </span><br /><br />Bruce Dunlop is a grass farmer and meat producer who utilizes rotational grazing to optimize soil nutrients. Pig manure fertilizes fall-planted pasture which feeds sheep in subsequent years. A Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) farmer grant is helping Bruce compare soil fertility in plots with pigs pastured under different rotation regimes. See and discuss early results of this on-going research with Bruce and WSU faculty collaborators Tom Schultz and Craig Cogger. Sheep breeding, offal composting, meat production, processing, and marketing methods, and the Island Grown Farmers Cooperative USDA certified mobile meat processing unit will also be discussed. Special Note: Attendees should plan to board the ferry from Anacortes at 8:50 am and board return ferry from Lopez Island at 1:50 or 4:55 pm. Roundtrip fares: passenger: $10.95; vehicle + driver: $26.60; bicycle surcharge: $2.00. See www.tilthproducers.org for shuttle information. (Sustainable)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday, May 18 - Monteillet Fromagerie, Dayton www.monteilletcheese.com</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">French Cheesemaking in the Walla Walla Valley, 12:30pm-3:30pm (followed by optional wine & cheese tasting)</span><br /><br />Monteillet Fromagerie was the first artisan cheese farmstead in the Walla Walla Valley of Southeastern Washington and features a Grade A dairy and cheese making facility. On 31-acres, Joan and Pierre Louis Monteillet intensively manage pasture for Alpine goats, East Freisan-Lacaune sheep, poultry and pigs. Throughout the production of traditional hand ladled chevres (goat) and brebis (sheep) milk cheeses, the Monteillets strive to foster a lifestyle that is creative physically and spiritually, as well as economically. Following the farm walk, Joan will host an optional cheese & wine tasting for an additional $15. (Transitioning to Biodynamic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday June 8 - Crown S Ranch, Winthrop www.crown-s-ranch.com</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Organic Animal Husbandry, 12:30pm-4pm</span><br /><br />Crown S Ranch is a 120-acre, pasture-based organic farm owned and operated by the Sukovaty-Argraves family. Engineers by training, Louis and Jennifer have combined innovative, modern technologies with sustainable, old-fashioned practices to create humane, economically and environmentally-sound animal husbandry systems that are "better for the animals, better for the environment, and better for you." Farm Walk participants will discuss techniques for integrating cows, pigs, turkeys, chickens and lamb using management-intensive pasture rotations. Come see their solar powered chicken train and learn about nutrient recycling to minimize off-farm inputs (closed farming system), on-farm organic hay, grain and feed production, and meat processing. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday June 22 - Estrella Family Creamery, Montesano http://estrellafamilycreamery.com</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Artisan Cheese Production, 12:30pm-4pm</span><br /><br />Estrella Family Creamery is a 164-acre grass-based dairy located in the Wynoochee Valley of Southwest Washington. Kelli and her family make twenty different types of aged cheeses by hand, several of which have received national and international awards. Cows and goats graze in organically-maintained pastures and are fed alternative forages such as oat hay and fodder beets. Tour the farm and see the cheese making operation, including five separate cheese aging rooms, each with its own unique environment. The Estrellas sell their cheese at Seattle farmer's markets, local retail stores, and an on-farm store on Saturdays. (Organic/Sustainable)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday July 13 - Let Us Farm, Oakville</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Organic Mixed Vegetable Production and Farmer Transition, 12:30pm-4pm </span><br /><br />Steve Hallstrom and Cecelia Boulais have converted a defunct 80-acre dairy on the Chehalis River to a productive organic mixed vegetable farm. Produce is sold through farmers markets and the Olympia Food Cooperative. Steve and Cecelia strive for sustainability through utilizing summer and winter cover crops and field rotations; conservation tree planting and habitat strips. Tour the greenhouses, hoop houses and fields. See innovative farmer housing including a converted silo, milk-tank suite and dining parlor. In partnership with Cascade Harvest Coalition's FarmLink Program, Steve and Cecelia will share how they "grow farmers," and discuss their plan to transition the operation to the next generation. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday July 30 - WSU Field Day and Organic Farm, Pullman www.css.wsu.edu/organicfarm</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Current University Research and Teaching in Organic Farming - Eastern Washington, 9:30am-1pm</span><br /><br />Come discover the latest research and hands-on teaching methods being tested at the Washington State University (WSU) Organic Farm in Pullman, including a four-year study of diverse winter and summer vegetables grown in unheated, unlit field hoop houses to increase production efficiency. The farm operates a 105-member fruit and vegetable CSA, selling to the local community. Students provide the bulk of the labor as part of their academic program. Tour the farm with the farmers, researchers, and students guiding the discussions. Visitors will be introduced to current student projects and faculty research plots. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday August 3 - WSU Field Day and Organic Farm, Puyallup www.puyallup.wsu.edu/soilmgmt</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Current University Research in Organic Farming - Western Washington, 1pm-4pm</span><br /><br />WSU Puyallup's experimental organic farm highlights a wide variety of organic practices and research plots. The organic farming and nutrient management research team has partnered with berry researchers to evaluate day-neutral strawberry varieties. The organic strawberry trial will run for three years and early results will be shared during the farm walk. Pastured sheep have recently been added to the system, helping researchers understand soil quality and fertility changes with the addition of pasture to a vegetable rotation. Pastured poultry have been part of the experimental farm since its inception-chickens and mobile chicken tractors will be on display. Other topics include Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) for food safety and drip irrigation. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday August 17 - Alvarez Farms, Mabton http://smallfarms.wsu.edu/wsu_pdfs/AlvarezCaseStudy.pdf</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Large Scale Diversified Vegetable Row Crops, 12:30pm-4pm</span><br /><br />The 120-acre Alvarez Farm is located in the upper Yakima Valley, with its rich volcanic soil, relatively moderate climate, and abundant irrigation water from the Yakima River. Hilario and Soledad Alvarez grow over 200 varieties of vegetables and melons, including a large diversity of peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes, zucchini, peas, beets, green onions, corn, okra, garlic, summer and winter squash, peanuts and more. Produce is sold throughout the Yakima Valley and through farmers markets in the Puget Sound region. More than 120 varieties of peppers and 50 varieties of tomatoes are grown from seeds harvested from their own crop. By taking soil tests every three years, the Alvarez family carefully monitors key soil indicators and organic matter content to ensure the long-term health of their farmland. Farm Walk attendees will see the entire operation, learn about soil monitoring and improvement, and how to make water-based pest spray using garlic cloves. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday September 28th - Blue Dog Farm, Carnation www.bluedogfarm.com </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Berry Production, Static Composting, and Raising Children while Farming, 12:30pm-4pm</span><br /><br />Owners Amy and Scott Turner will share information and host discussions on a wide range of topics while we tour their dynamic community-rich farm. These farmers will share how they are changing Blue Dog Farm into a more diverse and integrated farm by combining vegetable and fruit production with animal and feed production. With berries as the main crop, attendees will see a variety of weed and disease control practices for small acreage fresh market blueberries and raspberries. Another main highlight at Blue Dog Farm is the static aerated pile method for composted mulch. Learn about the benefits of different compost ingredients, equipment, recordkeeping, testing, and best final use. Amy and Scott will also talk about the challenges and benefits of raising children while actively farming. (Organic)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Farm Walk Logistics - Complete details at www.tilthproducers.org</span><br /><br /> * Beverages are provided.<br /> * Cost is $10 for Tilth Producers members; $15 for non-members; for student group rate, inquire at (206) 442-7620<br /> * Driving directions available at www.tilthproducers.org<br /> * Register on-site or pre-register by mailing a check with your farm walk choice(s) to:<br /><br /> Tilth Producers of Washington<br /> PO Box 85056, Seattle, WA 98145<br /><br />Tilth Producers Membership is encouraged to help support the Farm Walk Program. ($45 regular or $30 low-income) Member benefits include a subscription to Tilth Producers Quarterly, a Directory of organic growers and resources, discounts for farm walks and the annual conference, free listing in Tilth Intern Placement Service, Directory and email news. For more information: (206) 442-7620 or nancy@tilthproducers.org<br /><br />Tilth Producers of Washington promotes ecologically sound, economically viable and socially equitable farming practices that improve the health of our communities and natural environment.<br /><br />Tilth Producers of Washington<br />P.O. Box 85056<br />Seattle WA 98145<br />206-442-7620<br /><br />Nancy Allen, Administrative Director<br />Email: nancy@tilthproducers.org<br /><br />Visit the Tilth Producers website: www.tilthproducers.orgMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-25191581659250094222009-03-26T11:25:00.000-07:002009-03-26T11:54:04.048-07:00Biodegradable Bags, Local Farms, and GreenwashingFor the past few weeks, I've been researching biodegradable bag options for local farms and farmers markets in Washington State. I was looking primarily at standard sized t-shirt bags, dimensions: 17.7” x 22.8”, 0.96mil(thickness), holds approx. 10 gallons. As I delved into this topic, more and more questions arose:<br />• What does “compostable” mean? <br />• How is that different (or similar) to “biodegradable”? <br />• Are the bags made from non-GMO corn? <br />• Are they made from petroleum, with an approved additive? <br />• Will they compost in landfills/home composts or do they need to be composted at approved facilities?<br />And so on, and so on. It’s a complex issue, without a single “right answer”. I am trying to find a biodegradable bag product that fits five criteria:<br /> <br />1. Affordable, compared to standard plastic t-shirt bags<br />2. Biodegradable, according to Cedargrove Composting and Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI, a national certifying and testing agency)<br />3. US Manufactured, there are no local manufactures, but we want to purchase a domestically produced product<br />4. Authenticity, the goal is to develop a long-term, values-based relationship with the manufacturer, not a sales-based relationship. We want to work with a company that values sustainability, rather than one that simply sells a “sustainable” product.<br />5. Made from non-GMO corn. We cannot promote sustainable agriculture if we undermine it by purchasing GMO-based products.<br /><br />In the past, CHC has worked with a local company to purchase “biodegradable” bags. Recently, I found out that their bags are NOT biodegradable in the Cedargrove Composting system, nor are they on the BPI list of approved products. Essentially, they sold us plastic bags at a premium price. Not good. It seems many manufacturers simply label their products "biodegradable" or "sustainable" for marketing. Yes, I have encountered "greenwashing" before, but this was the first time that I didn't really have any background experience or knowledge.<br /><br />One manufacturer has consistently met our criteria, but before CHC makes a purchase, we're waiting for responses from local farms and farmers markets about their interest and commitment to biodegradable bags. At least we're now more conversant with the terminology and a little less naive about "greenwashing". <br /><br />MarkMarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417741541128527135.post-40579185570188359052009-03-23T16:21:00.000-07:002009-03-26T09:32:59.568-07:00Cascade Harvest Coalition is a 2009 Local Hero Award recipient!Thanks, edibleSEATTLE!<br /><br /><a href="http://edibleseattle.net/localhero2009.htm">Local Hero Awards</a>Markhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152933534405898807noreply@blogger.com0