I have really enjoyed reading Fields that Dream. Hearing about local farmers has been so inspiring. Also, when I read the book, I think about my friends Hannah and Riley who have recently started a farm in Skokomish and sell their crops in Shelton and Oly farmer's markets. They inspire me so much. Like one farmer in FTD, they decided not to get their organic certification because of the cost, but they still use all organic and sustainable practices. they do not spray their plants.
I really believe that the only solution to the economic situation is through small local farms, where communities are connected. In this way, people would be able to feed themselves without relying on selfish corporations for their sustainance. The other night I had dinner with them, and everything was from the farm. It was a SUPER gourmet meal, chantrelle mushroom gravy (from the backyard!) over new potatoes and brocolli and carrots and a really amazing leek and onion soup. PHEW. SO much better than anything from a store or restaurant, home made, and grown 10 feet away! Perfect!
My partner is interested in goin g to culinary school after Evergreen. The other night we had a conversation and I told him I thought he should be studying agriculture while at evergreen and working on the farm so that he can revoutionize the culinary world by making it green. The idea came to me from the lettuce farmer in seattle, who was formerly a chef. My partner Shane agrees totally with me and really believes in local farming. I am so excited for him.
I want to move back to Boston when I am done with Evergreen, but I want to start a rooftop gardening revolution so that these kinds of sustainable practices are possible even in the urban setting.