Michigan State University Extension helps people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, communities and businesses. MSU Extension helps to grow Michigan’s economy by equipping Michigan residents with the information that they need to do their jobs better, raise healthy and safe families, build their communities and empower our children to dream of a successful future.
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Garrett Ziegler works for MSU Extension as a Community Food Systems Educator. He has been one of the key players in the USDA grant-funded CSA promotion project that puts on Growers’ Fare.
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Q: What is Growers’ Fare?
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A: Growers’ Fare is an open house that will take place on Saturday, March 19 from 9:00a-2:00p at the Downtown Market. This open house is an opportunity for people to meet and connect with twenty local farmers to learn more about their farms, growing practices, and CSA programs.
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Q: Why did you get involved with the CSA promotion project?
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A: I got involved with the CSA marketing project because I wanted to find a better way to engage with farmers and help them to have successful businesses. I saw this as an opportunity to support their work and grow the ability of small and medium growers to thrive in West Michigan. As an organization, MSUE strives to foster collaboration, build trust, and empower local growers and this project aligns with those values.
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Q: Why do you think that CSAs are valuable?
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A: CSAs are one of the best ways to build community and knowledge around local food. There is no better way to get connected to local food than to touch the food, cook with it, and celebrate it together. CSAs allow consumers to directly invest in farms and build relationships with farmers. Considering the economic, social, and environmental benefits of supporting locally based food systems, I would love to see CSAs become more prevalent in our community.
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Q: What do you hope that people gain from attending Growers’ Fare?
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A: I hope that attendees come to Growers’ Fare to connect with farmers and learn their stories. I want attendees to gain a better understanding of what CSAs are, why they are important, and how they can be a part of a healthy local food economy. I want people to come to have fun, eat delicious food, celebrate our local economy, and most importantly, celebrate our local growers.
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Q: Who should attend Growers’ Fare?
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A: This event will have something for everyone to learn regardless of their experience level with CSAs. Whether you are new to the concept of CSAs or you have had one in the past, this open house is a great way to connect with farmers, learn about their practices, and identify resources that can help you make the most of your CSA experience. There will also be free food, kids activities, and cooking demonstrations so this event will be a great learning opportunity for all.
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