We wanted to farm to help grow a resilient local food system. But we didn’t anticipate being put to the test so soon.

Growing healthy nutritious food for our community feels particularly meaningful in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. So we’re working hard to prepare for the season. We have thousands of plants started in the greenhouse. Our peas, carrots, and spinach are already growing in the beds. And we transplanted pac choi, escarole, cabbage, and lettuce into the field this week.

A few months ago we vacillated about whether to expand. I’m so glad we went for it. As soon as it stops raining, we’ll open up another quarter acre to grow even more food for our community.

• 

• 

And it’s not just us. Washington Young Farmers Coalition and other organizations organized an extraordinarily well facilitated call last week. Almost 300 farmers from across the state shared resources, ideas, questions, needs, and support. I love being part of a group of brilliant people who know how to make things happen.

Before COVID-19, I was already awed by the generosity and creativity of the farming community. Now, more than ever, we need wildly optimistic people to envision a road to recovery that makes us more just, sustainable, and resilient. I feel honored to be part of a farming community that has already being working towards that goal.

As we’re all forced to focus our attention on the essentials, food systems are on many people’s minds. Here are a few ways that everyone can support their local farmers and producers.

1. Join a CSA
   You can support a local farm by joining a CSA. You receive a box of freshly picked produce throughout the season. And avoid a trip to the grocery store. Farms receive up front resources for the growing season. Check out our CSA at songbirdhavenfarm.com or find a CSA that drops off at in your neighborhood at localharvest.org.
2. Stay in touch with your farmers markets
   Most farmers markets are closed. But many are compiling resources to source local food. Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Markets put together this guide which lists many ways to purchase from their vendors.
3. Donate to support farms in crisis
   The Washington based Good Farmer Fund provides emergency financial resources to struggling farms.
4. Encourage your supermarket to purchase from local producers Without farmers markets, local cheese makers, grain growers, bakers, and flower growers need new outlets.