The depletion of family farms is occurring at an alarming rate. According to Farm Aid, each week 330 farmers are forced to leave their land. Why? Simply put: the small farmer cannot compete or afford to compete with the massive increase in corporate farming. Our government has played a significant role in supporting large scale food production by enticing and showering corporate farmers with government subsidies that have not been easily available to the small scale family farmer.

The statistic is as real as it is disheartening. It is important to be aware that we all have choices especially when it comes to the food that we consume. That may require doing our homework to find out exactly where our food has come from. However, once the assignment is completed, a well informed choice can be made.

There are many reasons as well as benefits for supporting local family farms. As stewards of the land family farmers work to protect the earth by using sustainable farming techniques to protect the soil, air, water and biodiversity. Many of the farmers live near or on their farms. Because of the stewardship and the farm as their home they have a vested interest in protecting and nurturing the precious land. This commitment results in high quality and nutritious food for all of us.

The support of family farms also benefits local economies by employing local workers and supporting local businesses through the purchasing of supplies and services. Additionally, family farmers are active in civic life and bridge the connection between local consumers, their food and how it was grown.

Family farmers have been one of the many backbones of this great country. They are a part of our nations heritage. With continued support of local consumers we can be assured of receiving quality, nutritious food and the preservation of God's earth through sustainable farming practices. We owe it to ourselves and to our children to protect the very things that helped to build our country and serve as a corner stone of this great land. Family farmers provide us with fresh unprocessed healthy foods. We encourage you to meet and support your local farmers.