For those of us living in Vermont, the Locavore movement is in strong evidence wherever we are.
The proliferation of CSA's(Community Supported Agriculture) offering locally based produce, meats and farm goods has grown exponentially. The number of Farm to Table restaurants seems to grow daily. And the exposure in not only local but national and international media has brought what we are doing into a world focus. Vermont is clearly setting an example for all to follow.
As Vermont sets an example for the rest of the United States and foreign countries, we have our own example to follow. And that example is the very humble community of Hardwick. Hardwick has been featured in Gourmet Magazine and The New York Times. It has spawned a very catchy titled book, "The Town That Food Saved, How One Town Found Vitality in Local Food" by Ben Hewitt. And most recently in a most wonderful book, "Kingdom's Bounty, A sustainable, eclectic, edible guide to Vermont's Northeast Kingdom" by Bethany M. Dunbar.
"Kingdom's Bounty" is a illuminating guide to some of what is taking place in Vermont on a local scale. As such it helps to demonstrate to all of us how a community can develop a comprehensive plan for the future based on local resources. The cooperative efforts of Hardwick have created The Center for an Agricultural Economy which operates the Vermont Food Venture Center. A model for all communities with an agricultural base.
Posted by Wade I. Treadway
